Anatomy Practice Exam

Which nervous system is comprised of cranial and spinal nerves?

1. Central nervous system

2. Peripheral nervous system

3. Autonomic nervous system

4. Somatic nervous system

The correct answer is: Peripheral nervous system

The correct answer, which identifies the nervous system comprised of cranial and spinal nerves, is the peripheral nervous system. This system is responsible for connecting the central nervous system (which includes the brain and spinal cord) to the limbs and organs. It encompasses all the nerves that branch out from the spinal cord and reach various parts of the body. The cranial nerves extend directly from the brain and serve functions related to the senses, muscle movement, and certain autonomic functions. Meanwhile, spinal nerves arise from the spinal cord and facilitate communication between the cord and the rest of the body. The peripheral nervous system is crucial because it not only relays information to and from the central nervous system but also plays a key role in voluntary and involuntary responses, signaling movements and regulating body functions. While the autonomic nervous system and somatic nervous system are parts of the peripheral nervous system, they do not encompass all cranial and spinal nerves in their entirety. The autonomic nervous system manages involuntary actions like heart rate and digestion, while the somatic nervous system governs voluntary control over skeletal muscles. Thus, the correct choice precisely identifies the broader category under which cranial and spinal nerves are classified.