Central Nervous System vs. Peripheral Nervous System — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on October 18, 2023
Central Nervous System (CNS) comprises the brain and spinal cord; Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) connects CNS to the rest of the body.
Difference Between Central Nervous System and Peripheral Nervous System
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
The Central Nervous System (CNS) is the primary control center of the body, comprising the brain and spinal cord. It processes and interprets sensory input and makes decisions based on this information. The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), on the other hand, is a vast network of nerves branching out from the CNS to the rest of the body. Its primary function is to transmit information to and from the CNS.
In the human body, the Central Nervous System (CNS) acts as the main hub where all crucial processes are monitored, controlled, and executed. It plays a vital role in consciousness, thoughts, and memory. Meanwhile, the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) serves as the communication lines between the CNS and the rest of the body, ensuring that signals from external and internal environments reach the CNS.
The Central Nervous System (CNS) is protected by the skull and vertebral column and is immersed in cerebrospinal fluid, offering it an added layer of defense. The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), however, is more exposed and is thus more vulnerable to injuries and toxins.
Both the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) work in harmony. While the CNS evaluates and responds to sensory information, the PNS acts as the carrier, ensuring seamless communication throughout the body.
Disturbances or malfunctions in the Central Nervous System (CNS) can lead to conditions like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's. Conversely, issues in the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) might result in peripheral neuropathy or Bell's palsy.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Main Components
Brain and spinal cord
Nerves outside CNS
Function
Processing information
Transmitting information
Protection
Skull, vertebral column
None (more exposed)
Diseases Associated
Parkinson's, Alzheimer's
Peripheral neuropathy
Response to Damage
Limited regeneration
Better potential to regenerate
Compare with Definitions
Central Nervous System
Comprises the brain and spinal cord.
The Central Nervous System interprets sensory data.
Peripheral Nervous System
Carries information to and from CNS.
The Peripheral Nervous System ensures the brain receives signals from the environment.
Central Nervous System
The body's main control hub.
Damage to the Central Nervous System can impact critical functions.
Peripheral Nervous System
Connects CNS to other body parts.
The Peripheral Nervous System relays sensations to the brain.
Central Nervous System
Responsible for thought and emotion.
Disorders of the Central Nervous System can affect cognition.
Peripheral Nervous System
Contains the autonomic nervous system.
The Peripheral Nervous System controls involuntary functions like heartbeat.
Central Nervous System
Coordinates activity of all body parts.
The Central Nervous System controls both voluntary and involuntary actions.
Peripheral Nervous System
Network of nerves outside the CNS.
Damage to the Peripheral Nervous System can impair sensation.
Central Nervous System
Processes and commands bodily responses.
The Central Nervous System is responsible for reflex actions.
Peripheral Nervous System
Divided into sensory and motor neurons.
The Peripheral Nervous System responds to stimuli and initiates actions.
Common Curiosities
What is the primary role of the Central Nervous System?
The Central Nervous System processes and interprets sensory information and makes decisions.
Why is the Central Nervous System vital for cognitive functions?
The Central Nervous System houses the brain, responsible for thought, memory, and emotion.
Which system is responsible for reflex actions?
The Central Nervous System coordinates reflex actions.
How is the Peripheral Nervous System connected to the CNS?
The Peripheral Nervous System links the CNS to the rest of the body through a network of nerves.
Which system plays a role in consciousness?
The Central Nervous System is crucial for consciousness.
Does the Peripheral Nervous System have divisions?
Yes, the Peripheral Nervous System is divided into sensory and motor divisions.
How is the Central Nervous System protected?
The Central Nervous System is shielded by the skull, vertebral column, and cerebrospinal fluid.
What can damage to the Peripheral Nervous System result in?
Damage can lead to conditions like peripheral neuropathy.
Can the Central Nervous System regenerate after damage?
The Central Nervous System has limited regenerative abilities compared to the PNS.
Is the Peripheral Nervous System vulnerable to injuries?
Yes, being more exposed, the Peripheral Nervous System is more susceptible to injuries than the CNS.
Which system has better regenerative potential?
The Peripheral Nervous System has better potential to regenerate compared to the CNS.
Which system contains the brain?
The Central Nervous System contains the brain.
How does the Peripheral Nervous System help in communication?
The Peripheral Nervous System ensures seamless communication between the CNS and the body.
How does the Peripheral Nervous System affect sensations?
The Peripheral Nervous System carries sensory information to the CNS for processing.
Is the Peripheral Nervous System involved in voluntary actions?
Yes, the Peripheral Nervous System's motor division initiates voluntary actions.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Wilderness vs. Outback
Next Comparison
Scheduled Banks vs. Non-Scheduled BanksAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
