Final answer:
The spinal cord is a long, tubular bundle of nervous tissues that extends from the brain stem to the lower back. It carries nerve impulses between the body and the brain, serving as an information superhighway. It is protected by the vertebrae and surrounded by protective coverings called meninges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The spinal cord is a long, thin, tubular bundle of nervous tissues that extends from the brain stem and continues down the center of the back to the pelvis. It is protected by the vertebrae and serves as an information superhighway, transmitting messages between the body and the brain.
The spinal cord ends just below the ribs, and this is where it merges with the brain stem. It does not extend all the way to the base of the spine. The lower end of the spinal cord consists of a bundle of nerve roots that resembles a horse's tail and is called the cauda equina. Overlying the spinal cord are protective coverings called meninges.