Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

It serves as a major pathway for both sensory and motor information between the brain and the rest of the body.

Question 2

Which layer of the spinal meninges is closest to the spinal cord, and what is the space immediately outside this layer called?

Accepted Answer

Pia mater; subarachnoid space

Question 3

The spinal cord white matter is organized into columns. Which of the following correctly matches the column with its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Posterior column: ascending sensory tracts

Question 4

Which of the following spinal cord tracts is responsible for transmitting pain and temperature sensations to the brain?

Accepted Answer

Spinothalamic tract

Question 5

A patient presents with loss of voluntary motor function below the level of a spinal cord injury. Which region of the spinal cord grey matter is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Ventral horn

Question 6

Which structure contains the cell bodies of sensory neurons entering the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Dorsal root ganglion

Question 7

Which of the following best defines the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

Accepted Answer

The PNS includes all neural structures outside the brain and spinal cord, such as nerves and ganglia.

Question 8

Which connective tissue layer surrounds individual axons within a nerve?

Accepted Answer

Endoneurium

Question 9

A spinal nerve splits into several branches after exiting the vertebral column. Which branch innervates the muscles and skin of the back?

Accepted Answer

Dorsal ramus

Question 10

Mixed nerves contain both sensory and motor fibers. Which of the following accurately describes the function of mixed nerves?

Accepted Answer

They transmit both sensory information to the CNS and motor information from the CNS.

Question 11

Which of the following best defines a ganglion?

Accepted Answer

A collection of neuron cell bodies in the PNS

Question 12

Which plexus is responsible for innervating the upper limb, and which major nerve arises from it?

Accepted Answer

Brachial plexus; median nerve

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a component of a reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Cerebral cortex

Question 14

Which reflex is characterized by contraction of a muscle in response to its passive stretching?

Accepted Answer

Stretch reflex

Question 15

During a withdrawal reflex, the flexor muscles contract while the extensor muscles relax. Which reflex ensures that the opposite limb extends to support the body?

Accepted Answer

Crossed-extensor reflex

Question 16

Which sequence correctly outlines the events leading to sensation and perception?

Accepted Answer

Stimulus → receptor activation → CNS processing → perception

Question 17

Which cranial nerve is responsible for vision, and is it sensory, motor, or mixed?

Accepted Answer

Optic nerve (II); sensory only

Question 18

A patient is unable to move their tongue. Which cranial nerve is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Hypoglossal nerve (XII)

Question 19

Which cranial nerve is responsible for controlling most of the muscles of facial expression, and is it sensory, motor, or mixed?

Accepted Answer

Facial nerve (VII); mixed

Question 20

A patient has lost the ability to feel touch and vibration in their lower limbs. Which spinal cord tract is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Dorsal column-medial lemniscus

Study Guidance for Central and Peripheral Nervous System Exam Topics

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