What does the central nervous system (CNS) consist of?

The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord. This system is responsible for processing and transmitting information throughout the body, serving as the primary control center for all bodily functions. The brain acts as the control center, handling sensory information, reasoning, emotions, and coordination of actions, while the spinal cord serves as a major conduit for signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Together, they function to integrate sensory information and coordinate responses, forming the core of the nervous system's role in maintaining awareness and movement.

The other options include elements that are not part of the CNS. For instance, nerves and muscles are part of the peripheral nervous system, while peripheral nerves are not centrally located in the body but spread out throughout it. Additionally, skin does not play a role in the central nervous system’s anatomy or function. Thus, the accurate identification of the CNS helps in understanding its critical functions in the overall nervous system.