THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

Question 1

What is the endocrine system?

Answer 1

• instructs glands to release hormones directly into the bloodstream
  -The main glands in the endocrine system is the pituitary glands located in the brain (controls the release of hormones)

Question 2

How does the fight or flight system work?

Answer 2

• The Endocrine and ANS work together
• Endocrine system and autonomic nervous system in parallel with one another, for instance during a stressful event
• The ANS changes from its normal resting state - parasympathetic state to the physiologically aroused, sympathetic state
• The stress hormone adrenaline is released from the adrenal medulla into the bloodstream
• Adrenaline is released which creates the physiological arousal needed for fight or flight
• Adrenaline causes pupils to dilate (better vision) and faster breathing (increase oxygen and blood) and increases sweat (remove heat)
  -Once the threat has passed the parasympathetic nervous system returns the body to its resting state
• The parasympathetic system acts as a brake
  Referred to as the rest and digest response

Question 3

What is fight or flight?

Answer 3

The way an animal responds when stressed. The body becomes physiologically aroused in readiness to fight an aggressor, or in some cases flee

Question 4

What is a hormone?

Answer 4

chemical substances that circulate in the bloodstream and only affect target organs. They are produced in large quantities but disappear quickly. It has powerful effects