What does the Central Nervous System consist of?

The Central Nervous System (CNS) is primarily composed of the brain and the spinal cord. The brain serves as the control center for processing sensory information and managing bodily functions, while the spinal cord acts as a conduit for signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Together, they integrate and coordinate all nervous system activities, allowing for complex processes such as movement, perception, and cognition.

The brain itself is responsible for higher-level functions such as thinking and decision-making, whereas the spinal cord facilitates reflexes and transmits messages throughout the body. This distinction highlights the essential roles that both components play within the CNS, making the combination of the brain and spinal cord the correct answer.

In contrast, other answers involve components that are not part of the central nervous system, such as the heart or peripheral nerves, which are integral to different systems of the body.