Final answer:
The lateral funiculus or lateral column of the spinal cord white matter contains various ascending and descending tracts that carry motor commands to and from the brain. Examples include the corticospinal tract and the dorsal column system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lateral funiculus, also known as the lateral column of the white matter, is located in the spinal cord. It is composed of many different groups of axons, both ascending and descending, that carry motor commands to and from the brain.
One example of a tract that is found in the lateral funiculus is the corticospinal tract. This tract descends from the cerebral cortex through the deep white matter of the cerebrum and passes through the spinal cord to control motor function.
Another example is the dorsal column system. This system carries sensory information up to the brain. It is separated into two component tracts: the fasciculus gracilis, which contains axons from the legs and lower body, and the fasciculus cuneatus, which contains axons from the upper body and arms.