Question

Name the (i) hormone released, and the (ii) gland which secretes it in human beings during scary situations. Explain how our body responds to enable it to deal with such situations.

Answer 1

(i) Hormone and gland: Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) is released during stressful events. The adrenal gland, situated atop the kidneys, secretes this hormone.

(ii) Body's reaction to adrenaline: Adrenaline initiates the body's "fight-or-flight" mechanism, preparing it to confront a perceived danger. Its effects are:

• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure: This enhances blood circulation to muscles, supplying them with increased oxygen and energy.
• Accelerated breathing rate: This boosts oxygen absorption.
• Higher blood sugar levels: This provides supplementary energy for muscular exertion.
• Widened pupils: This improves visual acuity.
• Suppressed digestive activity: Blood is rerouted from the digestive system to the muscles.

These physiological adjustments allow the body to respond rapidly and efficiently to demanding circumstances.