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: The hormone released in scary situations is adrenaline (also called epinephrine), and the gland that secretes it is the adrenal gland (located on top of the kidneys).

(ii) Body's response to adrenaline: Adrenaline triggers the body's "fight-or-flight" response, preparing it to deal with a perceived threat. The effects include:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure: This increases blood flow to muscles, providing them with more oxygen and energy.
• Increased breathing rate: This increases oxygen intake.
• Increased blood sugar levels: This provides more energy for muscle activity.
• Dilation of pupils: This improves vision.
• Reduced digestive activity: Blood flow is diverted from the digestive system to the muscles.

These changes enable the body to react quickly and effectively to a stressful situation.