What does the peripheral nervous system (PNS) primarily connect?

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is primarily responsible for connecting the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, to the rest of the body. This connection is crucial because it allows for communication between the brain and sensory organs, as well as muscles and glands.

Sensory organs, such as the eyes, ears, and skin, receive information about the environment and relay that information back to the CNS for processing. In turn, the CNS sends signals back through the PNS to orchestrate motor responses and other functions. This integration is vital for bodily responses to stimuli and overall functioning.

Understanding the function of the PNS highlights its role in bridging external sensory input with internal processing in the brain, allowing for coordinated responses and interactions with the environment.