Question

Give two main functions of the spinal cord.

Answer 1

Spinal cord:

1. The spinal cord is a tubular or cylindrical structure that runs from the medulla oblongata to the neural canal in the vertebral column.
2. The spinal cord consists of grey matter and white matter. Grey matter forms the centre while white matter is present at the periphery.
3. Two main functions of the spinal cord are as follows:

• It provides pathways to sensory and motor impulses, i.e it relays messages between the brain and the body.
• It controls reflex activities of the nervous system without involving the brain.