Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Central Nervous System (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing and coordinating information received from sensory organs and sending out commands to muscles and glands.
Related terms
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): The network of nerves outside the CNS that connects it to all other parts of the body.
Motor Neurons: Neurons that carry signals from the CNS to muscles or glands, enabling movement or secretion.
Sensory Neurons: Neurons that carry sensory information from sensory receptors to the CNS for processing.