Question

White matter is in brain and \(\longrightarrow\) in spiral cord (in case of humans) (a) Outside, inside (b) In, out (c) In, in (d) Out, out

Short answer

The correct answer is (a) Outside, inside

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the terminologies

White matter refers to the areas of the central nervous system (CNS) that are mainly made up of myelinated nerve fiber tracts. Its name comes from the white, fatty myelin sheath that surrounds the nerve fibers and allows electrical signals to pass quickly between cells. The locations of the white matter in the brain and spinal cord are distinctive.

Determining the location of white matter in the brain

In the brain, the white matter is located internally. It is present beneath the outer layer of the brain which is called the cerebral cortex and is mostly composed of gray matter.

Determining the location of white matter in the spinal cord

In contrast to the brain, the white matter in the spinal cord is located externally, or on the outside. Therefore, the white matter is on the inside in the brain and on the outside in the spinal cord.

Key concepts

Central Nervous System

The Central Nervous System, commonly abbreviated as CNS, is one of the most crucial parts of our body's communication network. It comprises the brain and the spinal cord, acting as the director of all activities happening within the body. The CNS is responsible for processing, interpreting, and responding to external and internal signals.
Simply put, it's like the CPU of a computer. It makes sure that information is transmitted, processed, and reacted to properly.

• The brain is like the control tower, overseeing everything.
• The spinal cord serves as a highway for signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

Understanding the CNS is vital for recognizing how injuries or diseases can affect bodily functions. When this system encounters issues, it can disrupt everything from simple reflexes to complex thought processes.

Myelinated Nerve Fibers

Myelinated nerve fibers are an integral part of the nervous system. They are like electrical wires covered with a special insulating material known as myelin. This myelin sheath not only protects the nerve fibers but also allows signals to travel much faster.
Think of myelin as the protective plastic coating around electrical wires. In the same way, it keeps the signal strong and prevents "short circuits".
Why is myelination so important?

• Increases the speed of nerve signal transmission.
• Ensures smooth and rapid communication between different parts of the body.

Myelinated nerve fibers primarily make up the white matter in the brain and spinal cord. The white matter is crucial for efficiently processing the nerve signals that allow us to perform day-to-day tasks.

Cerebral Cortex

The cerebral cortex is a key player in our brain's functionality and complexity. Located on the outermost layer of the brain, it's composed of gray matter, contrasting with the inner white matter.
Gray matter consists of neuronal cell bodies, which handle real-time processing of information. Almost everything that's special about humans—thought, language, and the ability to solve complex problems—has a lot to do with the cerebral cortex.
Why does the cerebral cortex matter?

• Responsible for conscious thought and decision-making.
• Processes sensory information like vision and hearing.

In relation to white matter, the cerebral cortex sits on top, allowing communication between different parts of the brain. This strategic positioning helps in coordinating diverse activities effectively.

Spinal Cord

The spinal cord is like a busy freeway of information, running from the brain down to the lower back. It plays a crucial role in transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. This includes everything from moving your fingers to responding to a hot surface with lightning-fast reflexes.
The spinal cord is strategically covered by white matter. Here, the myelinated nerve fibers form highways for rapid signal transmission, surrounding the central core of gray matter.
Key roles of the spinal cord:

• Facilitates communication between the brain and peripheral nerves.
• Manages reflexes that occur without direct involvement from the brain.

When the spinal cord faces injury, it can lead to serious consequences such as paralysis, highlighting its role in maintaining the body's functionality.