What does the spinal or vertebral cavity contain?

The spinal or vertebral cavity is specifically designed to house and protect the spinal cord, which is a critical part of the central nervous system. This cavity runs along the vertebral column, formed by the vertebrae, and serves to encase the spinal cord, which transmits nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord plays a vital role in motor control, sensory perception, and reflex coordination, making the vertebral cavity essential for neurological function.

While the brain is housed in the cranial cavity, ribs are part of the thoracic cavity that encloses the lungs and heart, and the digestive system is located in the abdominal cavity. None of these options pertain to the contents of the spinal cavern, reinforcing why the spinal cord is the proper answer.