What does cessation of activity in the central nervous system indicate?

Cessation of activity in the central nervous system is a definitive indicator of brain death. This condition implies that all neurological function has permanently ceased, meaning there is no blood flow or electrical activity in the brain, resulting in the inability to breathe or respond to stimuli. Brain death is considered a legal and clinical definition of death, as it reflects total and irreversible loss of brain function, including in the brainstem, which controls vital functions such as breathing and circulation.

In contrast, a coma refers to a state of unresponsiveness where a person may still have some degree of brain activity. The vegetative state allows for basic reflexes and sleep-wake cycles, despite lack of awareness, indicating some preserved brain function. Cardiac death focuses on the failure of the heart and circulatory system, which is distinct from the activity of the central nervous system. Thus, cessation of activity specifically indicates brain death, making it the correct answer.