Editing Ventricular system (section)

=== Protection of the brain ===
The brain and spinal cord are covered by the [[meninges]], the three protective membranes of the tough [[dura mater]], the [[arachnoid mater]] and the [[pia mater]]. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the [[skull]] and spine provides further protection and also [[buoyancy]], and is found in the [[subarachnoid space]] between the pia mater and the arachnoid mater.{{cn|date=January 2024}}

The CSF that is produced in the ventricular system is also necessary for chemical stability, and the provision of nutrients needed by the brain. The CSF helps to protect the brain from jolts and knocks to the head and also provides buoyancy and support to the brain against gravity. (Since the brain and CSF are similar in density, the brain floats in neutral buoyancy, suspended in the CSF.) This allows the brain to grow in size and weight without resting on the floor of the cranium, which would destroy nervous tissue.<ref>Klein, S.B., & Thorne, B.M. Biological Psychology. Worth Publishers: New York. 2007.</ref><ref>Saladin, Kenneth S. Anatomy & Physiology. The Unit of Form and Function. 5th Edition. McGraw-Hill: New York. 2007</ref>