What is the Difference Between Spinal Cord and Vertebral Column?

The spinal cord and vertebral column are two distinct structures that serve different functions within the human body. The main differences between them include:

1. Composition: The spinal cord is a tube-like structure made up of bundles of nerve fibers, while the vertebral column, also known as the backbone or spine, is composed of bones called vertebrae.
2. Location: The spinal cord is a delicate structure that contains nerve bundles and cells, and it carries messages from the brain. The vertebral column is the central axis of the skeleton in all vertebrates, made up of 33 bones in a newborn human, which reduce to 24 as they fuse during growth and development.
3. Function: The spinal cord serves as a pathway for communication between the brain and the body, carrying nerve signals throughout the body. The vertebral column provides structural support, bears the weight of the body, and protects the spinal cord.
4. Nervous System: The spinal cord is part of the central nervous system and plays a crucial role in carrying nerve signals. The vertebral column is part of the human skeleton and is made up of vertebrae that stack on top of each other, from the pelvic bones to the skull.

In summary, the spinal cord is a part of the nervous system and is responsible for carrying nerve signals, while the vertebral column is part of the skeletal system and provides support and protection for the spinal cord.

Comparative Table: Spinal Cord vs Vertebral Column

Here is a table highlighting the differences between the spinal cord and the vertebral column:

In summary, the spinal cord is part of the central nervous system and is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The vertebral column, on the other hand, is part of the human skeleton and provides support to the torso, head, and thorax. The vertebral column is made up of bones, discs, and joints, with 33 vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs.