Chapter 5 – ENDOCRINE SYSTEM AND ADOLESCENCE
Short Answers:
1 Define the terms:
)
a) Endocrine glands: The hormone producing glands that have no ducts and pour
their secretions directly into the blood are called as Endocrine glands. It is also
called as ductless glands.
b) Cretinism: The insufficient secretion of thyroxine causes abnormal development
in an infant resulting in both physical and mental retardation.
c) Glucagon: Glucagon is a hormone secreted by Islets of Langerhans (present in
Pancreas) which stimulates the breakdown of glycogen in the liver to glucose. It
raises the sugar level in the blood.
d) Adolescence: Adolescence is derived from a Latin word “adolescere” meaning
“to grow into maturity”. It is the period of life when the body undergoes
development leading to reproductive maturity.
e) Puberty: Puberty is the period during which the reproductive systems of boys and
girls mature.
f) Hormone: Hormone is a chemical substance secreted by an endocrine gland,
which is directly poured into the bloodstream and acts on a target organ or cell.
2 In the table given below, fill in the blanks by naming endocrine glands, the hormones
) they secrete and the function they perform in a normal person.
s.n Name of the gland Hormone produced Function
o
1. Thyroid Thyroxine Controls the metabolic rate
2. Pancreas Insulin Regulates the amount of sugar
in the blood
3. Adrenal Adrenaline Prepares the body for action.
4. Pituitary Growth hormone Speeds up growth.
3 Write the exact locations of the following:
)
a) Thyroid gland: Situated on either side of the wind pipe, just below the larynx.
b) Adrenal gland: situated like caps over the kidneys.
c) Pancreas: situated behind the stomach.
d) Pituitary gland: Situated below the brain.
e) Adam’s apple: larynx, the protruding part of the throat for boys.
4 Name the source and the function of each of the following hormones:
)
Hormone Source Function
a) Glucagon Pancreas Breaks down glycogen in the liver to
glucose.
b) Thyroxine Thyroid Controls the metabolic rate.
c) Adrenaline Adrenal Medulla Prepares the body for any
emergency situation.
d) Insulin Pancreas Regulates the amount of sugar in
blood.
e) Cortisone Adrenal Cortex Regulates the salt and water balance
in the body
Adapts the body to “stresses”.
Long answers:
1 Distinguish between the following pairs on the basis of the words indicated in the
) brackets[ ].
a) Exocrine gland Endocrine gland
(i) Secretions are called as (i) Secretions are called as
enzymes. hormones.
(ii) Secretions are sent (ii) Secretions are poured in
through the ducts to the bloods to reach the target
target organs. organs.
b) Cretinism Myxoedema
(i) It results in abnormal (i) It results in general
development in an infant sluggishness , with swelling on
with both physical and the face and hands.
mental retardation.
c) Insulin Glucagon
(i) Releases sugar from the (i) Regulates the amount of sugar
liver. in the blood.
d) Thyroxine Adrenaline
(i) It is produced by the (i) It is produced by the Adrenal
Thyroid gland. glands.
e) Human male hormone Human female hormone
(i) The Male sex hormones (i) The female sex hormones are
are called androgens. called oestrogens.
(ii) It helps in development of (ii) It helps in development of
secondary male sexual secondary female sexual
characteristics. characteristics.
(iii) Example is testosterone. (iii) Examples is Prolactin.
2 Give reason/ explain:
)
a) Pituitary gland is considered as the “master gland”.
Pituitary gland secretes several hormones, some of which regulate the
activity of other endocrine glands, hence it is considered as the “master
gland”.
b) Epinephrine is also called as the “emergency hormone”.
Epinephrine is secreted when a person is under severe stress, fearful or
angry. This hormone prepares the body to meet any emergency situation,
that is to face the danger , or flee from a situation, hence is it called as
“emergency hormone”.
3 Draw a neat and labelled diagrams of the thyroid glands showing its
)
a) Front view
b) Back view
4 Briefly write about the importance of physical hygiene during adolescence.
)
Personal hygiene / physical hygiene is very important during adolescence to
maintain one’s own health.
1. This period is marked by significant hormonal changes that can lead to
increased oil production and acne, making proper skin care essential.
2. Maintaining good hygiene practices, like regular bathing and dental care, helps
prevent body odour and dental issues, which can impact self-esteem and social
interactions.
3. Additionally, good hygiene supports overall health by reducing the risk of
infections and promoting a positive body image.
4. Establishing these habits during adolescence sets the foundation for lifelong
health and confidence.
5 Briefly discuss any four activities which can be practised to overcome stress.
)
Four activities that can help overcome stress:
1. Exercise: Engaging in physical activities like running, swimming, or even
walking can help release endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that
improve mood and reduce stress.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation helps
calm the mind by focusing on the present moment. Simple breathing exercises
or guided meditation can reduce anxiety and help you feel more relaxed.
3. Hobbies: Spending time on activities you enjoy, such as drawing, playing a
musical instrument, or reading, can provide a break from stressful situations
and help you unwind.
4. Talking to Someone: Sharing your feelings with a friend, family member, or
counselor can be very helpful. Talking about what’s bothering you can provide
relief and support, and sometimes, just expressing your thoughts can make a
big difference
