Which term describes the portion of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord?

• A. Peripheral nervous system
• B. Autonomic nervous system
• C. Central nervous system
• D. Somatic nervous system

Answer: (C)

The central nervous system is the part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord and acts as the body's main processing and control center. It processes incoming information, coordinates responses, and stores memories. The brain and spinal cord are protected by the skull and vertebral column and by protective membranes, underscoring their central role. The other terms refer to components of the peripheral nervous system, which includes nerves outside the CNS; the autonomic division handles involuntary functions, while the somatic division manages voluntary movements and sensory input from the body.