The brain and spinal cord are the two major components of the nervous system. The difference between the brain and spinal Cord is easy to understand as they are two distinct structures each with its own functions.
- Brain is housed inside the skull and it controls most of the activities of the body. In higher organisms such as humans and other vertebrates, it is the centre of learning.
- Spinal Cord is a tube-like structure that begins from the end of the brain and ends at the bottom of the backbone. The spinal cord is made up of nerves that carry information between the brain and the rest of the body.
Essentially, the brain and spinal cord are a part of the nervous system. In this article, we shall explore more differences between the two:
| The brain can be described as having three major regions – Forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain. | Spinal cord is anatomically a long, thin and tubular structure. It is also divided into 4 regions – Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar and Sacral |
| The brain is housed inside the cranium – a bony covering that protects the brain from mechanical shocks and injuries | The spinal cord is enclosed inside the vertebral column. |
| Injuries to the brain can result in varying consequences – ranging from loss of consciousness to vomiting and nausea. Depending on the injury, other medical complications can also arise such as loss of smell, and taste and also hamper vision. | Injury to the spinal cord may result in loss of muscle function, autonomic function or sensation. |
In conclusion, the difference between the brain and spinal cord is very apparent. Both are anatomically different and are found in different locations of the body.
Read More:
- Spinal Cord – Anatomy, Structure, Function, & Diagram
- Human Brain – Structure, Diagram, Parts Of Human Brain
- Human Nervous System (Structure, Function & Parts)
Frequently Asked Questions on Brain and Spinal Cord
What is the difference between Brain and Spinal Cord?
The brain is housed inside the skull and it controls most of the activities of the body. In higher organisms such as humans and other vertebrates, it is also the centre of learning. The spinal Cord is a tube-like structure that starts from the bottom of the brain and ends at the bottom of the backbone. The spinal cord is made up of nerves that carry information between the brain and the rest of the body.
What is the role of the brain and spinal cord?
The brain controls all the activities in the body. It is the command centre for memory, thinking and all the voluntary, as well as involuntary processes in the body. It also processes the sensory signal from the eyes, ears, nose and skin. The spinal cord act as a pathway between the brain and peripheral nervous system. It also controls reflex actions.
Is the brain connected to the spinal cord?
Yes. The brain is connected to the spinal cord through the brain stem.
What are the brain and spinal cord called?
The brain and spinal cord are together known as the central nervous system.
What is a spinal cord?
The spinal cord is anatomically a long, thin and tubular structure enclosed inside the vertebral column.
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