AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Vertebrae: The spine has 33 stacked vertebrae (small bones) that form the spinal canal. The spinal canal is a tunnel that houses the spinal cord and nerves, protecting them from injury. Most vertebrae move to allow for a range of motion. The lowest vertebrae (sacrum and coccyx) are fused together and don’t move.

Detailed explanation-2: -Each vertebra has a hole in the center, so when they stack on top of each other they form a hollow tube that holds and protects the entire spinal cord and its nerve roots. The spinal cord itself is a large collection of nerve tissue that carries messages from your brain to the rest of your body.

Detailed explanation-3: -The three main functions of the spine are to: Protect the spinal cord, nerve roots and several of the body’s internal organs. Provide structural support and balance to maintain an upright posture. Enable flexible motion.

Detailed explanation-4: -Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounds the spinal cord, which is also shielded by three protective layers called the meninges (dura, arachnoid and pia mater).

Detailed explanation-5: -The spinal cord houses the all-important nerves that transmit messages between the brain and the body. As you can imagine, protecting the spinal cord is important. And even though we don’t have control over keeping it safe, our bodies are built to provide helpful safeguards.