The endocrine system

Question 1

What is the endocrine system?

Answer 1

It is a major information system which instructs glands to release hormones into the bloodstream to be carried towards target organs.

Question 2

What is a gland?

Answer 2

An organ in the body that synthesises substances such as hormones.

Question 3

What are the main endocrine glands?

Answer 3

Pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, ovaries, testes

Question 4

Which systems work together during a stressful event?

Answer 4

The endocrine system and the autonomic nervous system.

Question 5

What happens during fight or flight?

Answer 5

A stressor is perceived and causes the brain to trigger activity in the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system. The ANS changes from its parasympathetic state to the physiologically aroused sympathetic state. Adrenaline is then released from the adrenal gland, triggering physical changes. Once the threat has passed, the parasympathetic nervous system returns the body to it’s resting state.

Question 6

What are the biological changes associated with the sympathetic state?

Answer 6

Increased heart rate, increased breathing rate, dilated pupils, inhibited digestion, inhibited saliva production and contracted rectum.

Question 7

What are the biological changes associated with the parasympathetic state?

Answer 7

Decreased heart rate, decreased breathing rate, constricted pupils, stimulated digestion, stimulated saliva production and relaxed rectum.