The correct sequence of meninges from inner to outer side is;
Pia mater → Arachnoid → Dura mater
— Concept: This question tests your knowledge of the protective layers, called meninges , that surround the brain and…Concept: This question tests your knowledge of the protective layers, called meninges, that surround the brain and spinal cord.
Why (C) is correct: The meninges are three layers of connective tissue that protect the central nervous system. From the innermost layer (closest to the brain/spinal cord) to the outermost layer (closest to the skull/vertebrae), the correct sequence is:
- Pia mater: The innermost, delicate, and highly vascularized layer that adheres closely to the brain and spinal cord.
- Arachnoid mater: The middle, web-like layer, separated from the pia mater by the subarachnoid space (which contains cerebrospinal fluid).
- Dura mater: The outermost, thickest, and toughest layer, which is closely associated with the skull and vertebral column.
Why other options are wrong:
- (A) Dura mater – arachnoid – pia mater: This is the sequence from outer to inner, not inner to outer.
- (B) Dura mater – pia mater – arachnoid: This sequence is incorrect as it mixes up the order of pia mater and arachnoid.
- (D) Arachnoid – dura mater – pia mater: This sequence is incorrect as it mixes up all three layers.
NEET Tip / Mnemonic: To remember the order from outer to inner, think of DAP (Dura, Arachnoid, Pia). Since the question asks for inner to outer, it's the reverse: PAD (Pia, Arachnoid, Dura).
Correct Answer: (C)
Pia mater → Arachnoid → Dura mater