Kerala SSLC · Biology · Class 10

The Endocrine System: Important Questions with Answers

These are 10 important multiple-choice questions from the Kerala SSLC Biology chapter “The Endocrine System” (Kerala SCERT syllabus). Each one shows the correct answer and a short explanation of why it is right. Try answering before you read the answer. ExamSummary has 10 practice questions on this chapter in total.

  1. Q1.Which gland is referred to as the 'master gland' because it regulates the functioning of several other endocrine glands?

    • A)Thyroid Gland
    • B)Pituitary Gland
    • C)Adrenal Gland
    • D)Pancreas

    Answer: B) Pituitary Gland

    The pituitary gland is called the master gland because it secretes hormones that control the activity of other endocrine glands like the thyroid and adrenal glands. Its position in the brain allows it to integrate signals from the hypothalamus.

  2. Q2.What is the primary physiological function of the hormone insulin produced by the pancreas?

    • A)To increase heart rate during stress
    • B)To regulate blood glucose levels
    • C)To stimulate bone growth
    • D)To control calcium absorption

    Answer: B) To regulate blood glucose levels

    Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose by cells from the bloodstream, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. Without sufficient insulin, glucose accumulates in the blood, leading to diabetes mellitus.

  3. Q3.A person suffering from goiter has an enlarged thyroid gland. This condition is most commonly caused by a deficiency of which dietary element?

    • A)Iron
    • B)Calcium
    • C)Iodine
    • D)Vitamin D

    Answer: C) Iodine

    Iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroxine hormone by the thyroid gland. A lack of iodine prevents the gland from producing enough hormone, causing it to enlarge in an attempt to compensate.

  4. Q4.During an emergency situation, such as encountering a dangerous animal, which hormone is released to prepare the body for 'fight or flight'?

    • A)Insulin
    • B)Thyroxine
    • C)Adrenaline
    • D)Estrogen

    Answer: C) Adrenaline

    Adrenaline is secreted by the adrenal glands when the body perceives stress or danger. It increases heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure to supply more oxygen to muscles.

  5. Q5.Which of the following statements correctly distinguishes endocrine glands from exocrine glands?

    • A)Endocrine glands secrete through ducts, while exocrine glands do not.
    • B)Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the blood, while exocrine glands use ducts.
    • C)Exocrine glands are found only in the brain, while endocrine glands are everywhere.
    • D)Endocrine glands produce enzymes, while exocrine glands produce hormones.

    Answer: B) Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the blood, while exocrine glands use ducts.

    Endocrine glands are ductless and release chemical messengers called hormones directly into the bloodstream. Exocrine glands, like sweat or salivary glands, release their secretions through ducts to specific locations.

  6. Q6.Type 1 Diabetes mellitus occurs when the body fails to produce enough insulin. Which organ is primarily responsible for this failure?

    • A)Liver
    • B)Kidney
    • C)Pancreas
    • D)Lungs

    Answer: C) Pancreas

    The pancreas contains clusters of cells called Islets of Langerhans that produce insulin. Damage or destruction of these cells leads to insufficient insulin production and high blood sugar.

  7. Q7.If the secretion of Growth Hormone (GH) is excessive in an adult who has already stopped growing in height, what condition is likely to occur?

    • A)Dwarfism
    • B)Cretinism
    • C)Acromegaly
    • D)Myxedema

    Answer: C) Acromegaly

    Excessive GH in adults causes bones in the hands, feet, and face to thicken rather than grow longer, a condition known as acromegaly. This happens because the growth plates have already fused.

  8. Q8.Where are the adrenal glands anatomically located in the human body?

    • A)On top of each kidney
    • B)In the center of the chest
    • C)Below the stomach near the liver
    • D)Inside the skull base

    Answer: A) On top of each kidney

    The adrenal glands are small triangular glands situated directly above each kidney. They play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and responding to stress.

  9. Q9.Which hormone is primarily responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics in females during puberty?

    • A)Testosterone
    • B)Progesterone
    • C)Estrogen
    • D)Oxytocin

    Answer: C) Estrogen

    Estrogen is the main female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. It triggers physical changes such as breast development and widening of hips during adolescence.

  10. Q10.Which hormone helps the kidneys retain water in the body to prevent dehydration?

    • A)ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)
    • B)Glucagon
    • C)Thyroxine
    • D)Melatonin

    Answer: A) ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)

    ADH acts on the kidneys to increase water reabsorption back into the blood. This reduces urine volume and helps maintain the body's water balance and blood pressure.

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