What are the two main components of the human nervous system?

The two main components of the human nervous system are indeed the central and peripheral nervous systems.

The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, serving as the primary control center for processing information and coordinating actions. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) encompasses all the nerves that branch out from the CNS to the rest of the body. It is responsible for transmitting sensory information to the CNS and carrying out motor commands from the CNS to muscles and glands. This division allows for the separation of processes that involve higher-level cognitive function (managed by the CNS) and those involved in reflex actions and responses to the environment (mediated by the PNS).

The other options refer to specific aspects or divisions within the nervous system. For instance, the autonomic system is a subdivision of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary bodily functions, while spinal and cranial primarily describe parts of the central nervous system. The sympathetic and parasympathetic options refer to branches of the autonomic nervous system, which control involuntary responses related to stress and relaxation, respectively. However, these do not encompass the overall structure of the nervous system, making the distinction of central and peripheral the most comprehensive and accurate choice.