the endocrine system

Question 1

what is the role of the pituitary gland

Answer 1

This is the ‘master gland’ and is located in the brain. It controls the release of the hormones from all of the other endocrine glands in the body.

Question 2

what is the role of the thyroid gland

Answer 2

Produces the hormone thyroxine which increases heart rate. It also increases metabolic rate which affects growth

Question 3

what is the role of the adrenal gland

Answer 3

Produces adrenaline in the adrenal medulla

It triggers increased heart rate and contracting blood vessels, which creates physiological arousal for the fight or flight response

Question 4

what is the role of the ovaries

Answer 4

secret oestrogen

Question 5

what is the role of the testes

Answer 5

secrete testosterone

Question 6

explain what happens when the autonomic nervous system and endocrine system work together

Answer 6

• hypothalamus activates the pituitary gland
• this causes autonomic nervous system to change from parasympathetic to sympathetic nervous system
• adrenal is secreted from the adrenal medulla into the bloodstream
• This causes physiological changes in the body to occur eg. Increased heart rate
• Once the threat has passed the Parasympathetic NS returns the body to it’s resting state acting as a ‘brake’ to return to homeostasis