Nerves can be either gray or white, depending on the type of nerve tissue.
- Gray matter consists of nerve cells (neurons) embedded in neuroglia (supporting cells). It appears gray because the neurons lack the fatty substance called myelin. Gray matter is primarily involved in processing information.
- White matter consists of nerve fibers (axons) embedded in neuroglia. It appears white due to the presence of myelin sheaths surrounding the axons. Myelin is a fatty substance that acts as an insulator, allowing nerve impulses to travel faster. White matter is primarily involved in transmitting information.
The color of nerves is not always visible to the naked eye. However, under a microscope, the different colors of nerve tissue can be easily distinguished.
