Question

Distinguish between :
Cranial nerves and spinal nerves.

Answer 1

Depending on the originating place (either brain or spinal cord), peripheral nervous system can be classified into two categories; namely, cranial nerves and spinal nerves. Cranial nerves are associated with head and neck (with the exception of vagus nerve) and are involved in transmission of both sensory and motor information to and from the brain whereas nerves that are originating from the spinal cord are known as spinal nerves. There are 12 pairs of cranial nerves, and these pairs are designated by numbered(I to XII) and name where the name may associate with its function whereas there are 31 pairs(grouped into 5 groups) of spinal nerves that are named in relation to their location on the spinal cord. Cranial nerves are mixed nerves, where they carry both sensory and motor fibers whereas spinal nerves are mixed nerves. Cranial nerves are involved in vision, sense of the smell, hearing, sense of taste and eye movements. Spinal nerves are involved in movement, sensation and sweat secretion.