What does the CNS primarily consist of?

The central nervous system (CNS) primarily consists of the brain and spinal cord. This structure serves as the main control center for processing information, integrating sensory input, and coordinating responses throughout the body. The brain is responsible for higher-order functions such as thought, emotion, and memory, while the spinal cord acts as a communication pathway between the brain and the rest of the body.

By focusing on the brain and spinal cord, this definition clearly delineates the CNS from the peripheral nervous system (which includes the nerves outside the CNS). Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping how the nervous system operates overall. Therefore, identifying the CNS as comprising the brain and spinal cord encapsulates the core components responsible for the body’s neurological functions.