The endocrine system - what each gland does

Question 1

what are hormones?

Answer 1

chemical messengers that control things in organs and cells that need constant adjustment

Question 2

where are hormones produced

Answer 2

endocrine glands

Question 3

the pituitary gland

Answer 3

• produces many hormones that regulate body conditions
• sometimes referred to as the ‘master gland’
• because these hormones act on other glands
• directing them to release hormones that bring about change

Question 4

thyroid gland

Answer 4

• produces thyroxine
• which is involved in regulating things like the rate of metabolism, heart rate and temperature

Question 5

ovaries - females only

Answer 5

• produce oestrogen, which is involved in the menstrual cycle

Question 6

adrenal gland

Answer 6

• produces adrenaline
• which is used to prepare the body for a ‘fight or flight’ response

Question 7

testes - male only

Answer 7

• produces testosterone
• which controls puberty and sperm production in males

Question 8

the pancreas

Answer 8

• produces insulin
• which is used to regulate the blood glucose level