Which hormone is released by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Insulin is the hormone released by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels. Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose into cells, helping to decrease blood glucose levels and store excess glucose for energy or future use. Glucagon, on the other hand, raises blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen into glucose. Cortisol and somatostatin do not directly regulate blood glucose levels in the same manner as insulin and glucagon.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it controls the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body. It secretes a variety of hormones that regulate various bodily functions and play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. The thyroid gland (Choice A) plays a role in regulating metabolism, the adrenal gland (Choice C) secretes hormones involved in stress response, and the pineal gland (Choice D) produces melatonin to regulate sleep-wake cycles, but they are not known as the 'master gland' due to their functions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct term for red blood cell production is erythropoiesis. This process specifically refers to the production of red blood cells, mainly occurring in the bone marrow. Hematopoiesis is a broader term that encompasses the production of all blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Phagocytosis is the process of engulfing and digesting particles by cells like macrophages, not related to red blood cell production. Thrombopoiesis is the production of platelets, not red blood cells.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting as it is necessary for the synthesis of proteins involved in the coagulation process, such as clotting factors. Without sufficient Vitamin K, the blood may not clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding. Vitamin C is important for collagen synthesis and immune function, Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health, and Vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function. However, when it comes to blood clotting, Vitamin K plays a vital role.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Insulin is the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells. It is produced by the pancreas and helps to lower blood sugar levels when they are too high. Glucagon, on the other hand, works in opposition to insulin by raising blood sugar levels when they are too low. Cortisol and thyroxine play different roles in the body and are not primarily responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Secreting digestive enzymes. The pancreas aids in digestion by secreting digestive enzymes that are essential for breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. These enzymes help in the absorption of nutrients from food, facilitating the digestive process. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. The pancreas does not produce bile (choice B), store glucose (choice C), or primarily regulate blood sugar levels (choice D) in the context of digestion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To filter blood and remove waste.' The kidneys play a crucial role in the urinary system by filtering blood to remove waste products and excess fluids, which are then excreted as urine. This process helps maintain the body's internal balance by regulating electrolyte levels and controlling blood pressure. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the kidneys do not produce red blood cells (bone marrow does), regulate blood pressure directly (although they indirectly influence it through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system), or absorb water (they regulate water balance but do not absorb water).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Mitochondria are the organelles responsible for energy production in the cell. They generate energy through cellular respiration, producing ATP, which is the primary energy currency of the cell. Known as the powerhouse of the cell, mitochondria play a vital role in meeting the energy demands of various cellular processes. The nucleus is responsible for storing genetic material, not energy production. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis, not energy production. The endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein and lipid synthesis, as well as detoxification, but it is not primarily responsible for energy production.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine), which is released by the adrenal medulla during the body's fight-or-flight response. Adrenaline helps prepare the body for action by increasing heart rate, dilating air passages, and mobilizing glucose and fats for energy, among other physiological responses. Choice A, Cortisol, is a steroid hormone released by the adrenal cortex involved in the stress response and regulation of metabolism. Choice C, Insulin, is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. Choice D, Somatostatin, is a hormone that inhibits the release of several other hormones in the body, but it is not released by the adrenal medulla.