Summary
The CNS is brain and spinal cord; the PNS is all the nerves that connect them to the body.
In depth
PNS has somatic (voluntary) and autonomic (involuntary) divisions. Nerves are bundles of axons; ganglia are clusters of cell bodies outside the CNS. White matter is myelinated axons, grey matter is cell bodies and synapses.
The CNS is protected by the skull, vertebrae, meninges and cerebrospinal fluid. PNS nerves can regenerate partially; CNS neurons much less.
Remember: cranial nerves emerge from the brain, spinal nerves from the cord.
Frequently asked questions
What is Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems?
The CNS is brain and spinal cord; the PNS is all the nerves that connect them to the body.
Which area of biology covers Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems, and how advanced is it?
Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems is one of the 54 topics in Neuroscience. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Nervous System, Sensory and Motor Neurons, Neuroinflammation.
Can you give an example of Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems?
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body.
What should I learn before Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems?
Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Neuroscience that pair well with it include Nervous System, Neuron, Brain Regions.
What topics are related to Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems?
The closest topics to Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems are Nervous System, Sensory and Motor Neurons, Neuroinflammation, Autonomic Nervous System. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems. To practise the whole of Neuroscience, use the Neuroscience quiz.
How is Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems different from Nervous System?
Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems: The CNS is brain and spinal cord; the PNS is all the nerves that connect them to the body. Nervous System: The brain, spinal cord and nerves that sense, process and respond to information. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Nervous System and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Neuroscience quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.