Which structures make up the central nervous system?

The central nervous system (CNS) is composed of two main structures: the brain and the spinal cord. The brain serves as the control center for processing information, coordinating responses, and regulating bodily functions, while the spinal cord acts as a pathway for communication between the brain and the rest of the body. It facilitates reflex actions and transmits messages through a complex network of nerve pathways.

The other options involve components that are part of the peripheral nervous system, such as sensory and motor nerves. These nerves extend outside of the brain and spinal cord, connecting them to limbs and organs, but they do not constitute the CNS. Thus, the key distinction lies in recognizing that only the brain and spinal cord categorize as the central nervous system structures.