Brain is covered by cranial meninges. Arrange the cranial meninges from inner to outer layer.
Pia mater Arachnoid Dura mater
— Concept: This question tests your knowledge of the protective layers surrounding the brain, known as the cranial…Concept: This question tests your knowledge of the protective layers surrounding the brain, known as the cranial meninges, and their correct anatomical arrangement.
Why (C) is correct: The brain is protected by three layers of connective tissue called meninges. From the innermost layer directly adhering to the brain to the outermost layer, they are arranged as follows: Pia mater (innermost, delicate, vascular), Arachnoid mater (middle, web-like, avascular), and Dura mater (outermost, tough, fibrous).
Why other options are wrong:
- A) Dura mater → Pia mater → Arachnoid: This order is incorrect; Dura mater is outermost, and Pia mater is innermost.
- B) Arachnoid → Dura mater → Pia mater: This order is incorrect; Arachnoid is middle, Dura mater is outermost, and Pia mater is innermost.
- D) Pia mater → Dura mater → Arachnoid: This order is incorrect; Dura mater is outermost, and Arachnoid is middle.
NEET Tip / Mnemonic: To remember the order from outer to inner, think of the acronym DAP (Dura mater, Arachnoid mater, Pia mater). If asked for inner to outer, it's the reverse: PAD (Pia mater, Arachnoid mater, Dura mater).
Correct Answer: (C)
Pia mater Arachnoid Dura mater