2. A spinal nerve belongs to what division of the nervous system?

Spinal nerves are part of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which connects the central nervous system (CNS) — composed of the brain and spinal cord — to the rest of the body. These nerves are responsible for transmitting sensory and motor information, allowing your brain to communicate with your limbs and organs. It's like the body's very own network of highways, ensuring signals travel back and forth without a hitch! When you think about spinal nerves, it’s fascinating to note that they emerge from the spinal cord in pairs, with one nerve on each side for 31 segments! Each of these spinal nerves divvy up into smaller branches to innervate specific areas, helping you move, feel, and even react faster than you can say "whoa!" Imagine your spinal nerves as the body’s personalized messenger service, making sure everything runs smoothly!