The central nervous system (CNS) is the part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord, where information is processed and coordinated.
The CNS receives sensory information from the body, interprets it, and generates appropriate responses. It is responsible for conscious thought, memory, learning, movement, and many automatic functions essential for survival. The peripheral nervous system connects the CNS to the rest of the body.
QUICK FACT
Although the brain accounts for only about 2% of body weight, it consumes roughly 20% of the body’s oxygen and energy at rest.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Peripheral Nervous System: The central nervous system consists only of the brain and spinal cord, while the peripheral nervous system includes all nerves outside these structures.
SEE ALSO
- Brain
- Spinal Cord
- Nervous System
- Peripheral Nervous System
- Autonomic Nervous System
- Paralysis
- Multiple Sclerosis
