human endocrine system

• What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

  To allow body parts to communicate
• How does the endocrine system differ from the nervous system?

  It uses hormones instead of electrical impulses
• What do all glands in the endocrine system secrete?

  Hormones
• What are hormones?

  Small chemical molecules in the blood
• Why do only some tissues respond to hormones?

  Only some have specific receptors for hormones
• What is the role of the pituitary gland?

  • Known as the master gland
  • Produces multiple hormones
  • Influences other glands' hormone release
• What hormone does the thyroid gland produce?

  Thyroxine
• What does thyroxine regulate?

  Metabolism and growth
• What triggers the release of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)?

  Low levels of thyroxine detected
• What is the process called when hormone levels are regulated?

  Negative feedback
• What hormone do the adrenal glands produce?

  Adrenaline
• When is adrenaline typically released?

  During the fight-or-flight response
• What hormone does the pancreas produce?

  Insulin
• What does insulin help regulate?

  Blood glucose concentrations
• What are the roles of the testes?

  • Produce testosterone
  • Control puberty in males
  • Produce male gametes (sperm)
• What are the roles of the ovaries?

  • Produce estrogen
  • Influence puberty in females
  • Hold female gametes (egg cells)
• How do hormones spread through the body?

  They are transported in the blood
• How do nerve impulses differ from hormones in terms of speed?

  Nerve impulses are sent very fast
• What is a key characteristic of the effects of hormones?

  They last longer than nerve impulses
• Why is the nervous system described as precise?

  It sends impulses to specific areas