GED Science : Endocrine System

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GED Science

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Endocrine System

What class of hormone must attach to membrane-bound receptors?

Possible Answers:

Peptide hormones

Steroid hormones

Tyrosine derivative hormones

Cholesterol hormones

Correct answer:

Peptide hormones

Explanation:

There are three primary types of hormones: peptide hormones, steroid hormones, and tyrosine derivative hormones. Of the three, peptide hormones are the only polar hormones, so they cannot pass the cell membrane. As a result, they must attach to a membrane-bound receptor in order to elicit a response in the cell.

Tyrosine derivatives and steroid hormones are smaller, nonpolar molecules. This allows them to pass directly through the membrane, rather than binding to a receptor on the surface. Steroid hormones are derived from cholesterol, but there is no such thing as "cholesterol hormones."

Example Question #2 : Endocrine System

Which of the following is a steroid hormone?

Possible Answers:

Testosterone

Human growth hormone

Oxytocin

Insulin

Correct answer:

Testosterone

Explanation:

Steroid hormones are created in the gonads and the adrenal cortex. They include testosterone, estrogen, cortisol, aldosterone, and progesterone.

Human growth hormone, oxytocin, and insulin are all peptide hormones, meaning that they are proteins made of amino acids. In contrast, steroid hormones are derived from cholesterol and have distinct ring structures.

Example Question #3 : Endocrine System

What hormone is responsible for lowering blood sugar levels in the body?

Possible Answers:

Thyroxine

Insulin

Glucagon

Oxytocin

Correct answer:

Insulin

Explanation:

Managing blood sugar levels is primarily the responsibility of the pancreatic hormones glucagon and insulin. Glucagon is responsible for raising blood sugar levels while insulin helps reduce the sugar levels.

Oxytocin is a hormone secreted from the posterior pituitary gland; it induces labor and contractions during childbirth. Thyroxine (also known as thyroid hormone or T4) is secreted from the thyroid and helps regulate metabolism.

Example Question #4 : Endocrine System

Which hormone is NOT created in the pituitary gland?

Possible Answers:

Prolactin

Follicle-stimulating hormone

Aldosterone

Thyroid-stimulating hormone

Correct answer:

Aldosterone

Explanation:

The pituitary gland is responsible for a number of peptide hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and prolactin. Aldosterone, however, is produced in the adrenal cortex and functions to raise blood pressure by preventing fluid loss via urination.

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