The Endocrine System

• What is the endocrine system?

  A system of glands that release/secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream
• What are hormones?

  Chemical messengers that are carried in the blood to a target organ where they produce an effect
• What is the name of the series of organs and glands which coordinate changes in the body using hormones?

  Endocrine system
• What is the purpose of the gland in the endocrine system?


  It secretes a hormone into the blood
• Where does the hormone travel through and to in the endocrine system?


  It travels through the bloodstream until it reaches its target organ
• What is the primary method of signal transmission in the nervous system?


  Electrical impulses through neurones
• What is the main difference in the speed of communication between the nervous and hormonal systems?

  The nervous system is faster than the hormonal system
• How long does the transmission last in the nervous system compared to the hormonal system?

  Nervous system transmission is short-lived, while hormonal transmission is long-lasting
• In what way are responses localized in the nervous system compared to the hormonal system?


  Responses in the nervous system are localized, while in the hormonal system they are widespread
• What type of responses are often permanent in the hormonal system?


  Responses that are often permanent
• How do responses in the nervous system differ in terms of permanence compared to the hormonal system?


  Responses in the nervous system are temporary and reversible
• What are the key differences between the nervous system and the hormonal system?


  • Nervous system uses electrical impulses; hormonal system uses chemical messengers.
  • Nervous system transmission is quick and short-lived; hormonal system is slower and long-lasting.
  • Responses in the nervous system are localized; in the hormonal system, they are widespread.
  • Nervous system responses are temporary and reversible; hormonal system responses are often permanent.
• What is another term for the endocrine system?


  The hormonal system
• What is an example of hormonal coordination?


  Puberty
• What is the master gland in the endocrine system?

  Pituitary gland
• What is the purpose of the pituitary gland in the endocrine system?


  -It secrets several hormones in response to body conditions

  -Some of these hormones act on other glands to stimulate other hormones to be release and bring about effects

  -It plays a large role in homeostasis and our body’s stress response
• What are the tubes called that enzymes from glands like the salivary gland pass into?


  Ducts
• Why are endocrine glands sometimes referred to as ductless glands?


  Because hormones pass directly into the blood
• What are the key differences between endocrine and exocrine glands?


  • Endocrine glands:
  • Ductless
  • Secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream
  • Exocrine glands:
  • Have ducts
  • Secrete substances like enzymes into ducts
• What does the endocrine system do?


  It secretes hormones into the bloodstream from glands throughout the body