Which components comprise the central nervous system?

• A. Nerves and ganglia
• B. Spinal nerves
• C. Brain and spinal cord
• D. Peripheral nervous system

Answer: (C)

The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. These two structures act as the main processing and command centers: the brain interprets sensory information, integrates thoughts and memories, and directs voluntary actions, while the spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body and can coordinate simple reflexes. The other components mentioned—nerves and ganglia, and spinal nerves—are part of the peripheral nervous system, which lies outside the CNS and connects it to the limbs and organs. So, brain and spinal cord are the elements that constitute the central nervous system.