Endocrine System Quiz

Which hormone is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels?

• insulin

• estrogen

• glucagon

• thyroxine

Answer explanation

The hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels is insulin. It helps to lower blood sugar levels by allowing cells to take in glucose from the bloodstream. Insulin also promotes the storage of glucose in the liver and muscles as glycogen. This hormone plays a crucial role in maintaining normal blood sugar levels and preventing hyperglycemia. Other options such as estrogen, glucagon, and thyroxine are not directly involved in regulating blood sugar levels.

What is the primary function of the hormone adrenaline?

• Control blood sugar levels

• Prepare the body for fight-or-flight response

• Promote digestion

• Regulate body temperature

Answer explanation

The primary function of the hormone adrenaline is to prepare the body for fight-or-flight response. It helps in increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to the muscles, enabling the body to respond quickly in dangerous or stressful situations. Adrenaline also enhances the release of glucose into the bloodstream, providing an immediate energy source for the body. It does not control blood sugar levels, promote digestion, or regulate body temperature.

Which gland produces melatonin?

• pituitary gland

• adrenal gland

• thyroid gland

• pineal gland

Answer explanation

The pineal gland produces melatonin. It is responsible for regulating sleep patterns and is located in the brain. The other options, such as the pituitary gland, adrenal gland, and thyroid gland, do not produce melatonin. The pineal gland is the correct choice for this question.

What hormone is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males?

• testosterone

• insulin

• progesterone

• estrogen

Answer explanation

The hormone responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males is testosterone. Testosterone plays a crucial role in the growth of facial and body hair, deepening of the voice, and muscle development. It is the primary male sex hormone and is produced in the testes. Testosterone also influences libido and sperm production. Other options such as insulin, progesterone, and estrogen are not directly involved in the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males.

Which hormone is released by the ovaries and plays a key role in the menstrual cycle?

• progesterone

• testosterone

• estrogen

• insulin

Answer explanation

The hormone released by the ovaries that plays a key role in the menstrual cycle is estrogen. It is responsible for regulating the growth and development of female reproductive organs and secondary sexual characteristics. Estrogen also helps in the thickening of the uterine lining, preparing it for possible pregnancy. This hormone is not to be confused with progesterone, testosterone, or insulin, as they have different functions in the body.

What is the function of the hormone oxytocin?

Which gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' of the endocrine system?

• pancreas

• adrenal gland

• pituitary gland

• thyroid gland

Answer explanation

The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' of the endocrine system. It controls the functions of other glands and regulates hormone production. This gland plays a crucial role in maintaining overall body functions and homeostasis. The pituitary gland is responsible for secreting various hormones that control growth, reproduction, and metabolism. Its importance in the endocrine system makes it deserving of the title 'master gland'.

What hormone is responsible for regulating the body's metabolism?

• thyroxine

• adrenaline

• insulin

• estrogen

Answer explanation

The hormone responsible for regulating the body's metabolism is thyroxine. It controls the rate at which the body uses energy and affects various functions, including heart rate, body weight, and temperature. Thyroxine is produced by the thyroid gland and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall metabolic balance. Other options like adrenaline, insulin, and estrogen do not have the same impact on metabolism as thyroxine.

Which hormone is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress?

• cortisol

• estrogen

• insulin

• adrenaline

Answer explanation

The adrenal glands release cortisol in response to stress. This hormone helps the body respond to stress by increasing blood sugar levels, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in metabolism. Cortisol is the correct choice for this question. The answer explanation highlights the hormone cortisol without mentioning the option number. It is important to note that the question is about the hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, not the query itself.

What is the function of the hormone progesterone?

• The function of the hormone progesterone is to control body temperature.

• The function of the hormone progesterone is to stimulate hair growth.

• The function of the hormone progesterone is to regulate blood sugar levels.

• The function of the hormone progesterone is to prepare the uterus for implantation and support pregnancy.

Answer explanation

The hormone progesterone plays a crucial role in preparing the uterus for implantation and supporting pregnancy. It is responsible for creating a suitable environment for the fertilized egg to attach and grow. Progesterone also helps maintain the uterine lining and prevents it from shedding, ensuring the embryo's stability. This hormone is not involved in controlling body temperature, stimulating hair growth, or regulating blood sugar levels. Instead, its primary function is to facilitate successful implantation and provide essential support throughout pregnancy.