What is the spinal cord's primary function in the body?

The primary function of the spinal cord is to conduct nerve signals, which is critical for the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. It serves as a major pathway for transmitting information, allowing both motor commands from the brain to be sent to the muscles and sensory information from the body to be relayed back to the brain. This conduction of nerve signals is essential for reflex actions as well, where quick responses to stimuli occur without direct involvement from the brain. Understanding this role highlights the spinal cord's importance in the nervous system's overall functionality in maintaining bodily processes and reflexes.