Biopsychology : Endocrine System

Question 1

Whats the endocrine system?

Answer 1

• communication system that instructs glands to release hormones into bloodstream
• carried in blood to target organs
• works w NS to control vital functions
• slower than NS w powerful effects

Question 2

Whats a hormone?

Answer 2

• chemical substance that circulates in bloodstream + effects target organs
• produced in large quantities
• slow release but longer actions than neurotransmitters → powerful effects

Question 3

What does the hypothalamus do?

Answer 3

• brain region connected to pituitary gland
• responsible for stimulating release of hormones from pituitary gland
• control system that regulates endocrine system

Question 4

Glands - Pineal gland

Answer 4

melatonin → responsible for biological rhythms (sleep cycle)

Question 5

Glands - Thyroid gland

Answer 5

thyroxine → regulates metabolism

Question 6

Glands - Hypothalamus

Answer 6

stimulates + controls release of hormones from pituitary

Question 7

Glands - Pituitary gland

Answer 7

‘master gland’ → hormones released control + stimulate release of hormones in other glands

Question 8

Glands - Adrenal Medulla

Answer 8

adrenaline + noradrenaline → fight or fight

Question 9

Glands - Adrenal Cortex

Answer 9

cortisol → release of glucose to provide energy, suppresses immune sustem

Question 10

Glands - Ovaries

Answer 10

oestrogen → regulation of female reproductive system (menstrual cycle + pregnancy)

Question 11

Glands - Testes

Answer 11

testosterone → development of male sex characteristics during puberty, promotes muscle growth