Final answer:
The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, controlling most functions of the body and mind, while the peripheral nervous system is the network that sends signals between the central nervous system and the limbs and organs, essentially enabling communication with the rest of the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
Central Nervous System (CNS) vs. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
The central nervous system (CNS) comprises the brain and spinal cord, serving as the control center for processing information and directing responses. Enclosed within the cranial and vertebral cavities, the CNS functions as the power plant, orchestrating complex neural functions and overall bodily coordination.
The peripheral nervous system (PNS), in contrast, acts as the wiring that connects the CNS to the muscles, organs, and senses spread throughout the body. It includes thick bundles of axons called nerves, carrying messages to and from the CNS. The PNS is further divided into the somatic nervous system, which manages voluntary movements, and the autonomic nervous system, controlling involuntary actions.