The dorsal root is a bundle of nerve fibers located at the back of the spinal cord. It carries sensory information from the body to the central nervous system, allowing the brain to process sensations such as touch, pain, and temperature. Each spinal nerve has a dorsal root that connects to sensory neurons. Dorsal roots are part of the peripheral nervous system and play a crucial role in transmitting signals from the body's periphery to the spinal cord. They are essential for reflex actions and help maintain the body's awareness of its environment.