What term refers to the central part of the nervous system?

The central part of the nervous system is referred to as the cerebrospinal system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. This system plays a crucial role in processing information and coordinating actions throughout the body. It is responsible for integrating sensory data and responding by sending signals to various parts of the body to facilitate movement and function.

The peripheral nervous system, on the other hand, consists of all the nerves that branch out from the brain and spinal cord, enabling communication between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. The autonomic nervous system, which is a division of the peripheral nervous system, regulates involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion. The somatic nervous system, also part of the peripheral system, controls voluntary movements, specifically those involving skeletal muscles. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the cerebrospinal system is identified as the central element of the nervous system.