1. What is the endocrine system composed of ?
Answer
It is composed of glands.
2. Name the organ that monitors and controls blood glucose concentration, and the hormone it produces when blood glucose concentration is too high.
Answer
The pancreas monitors blood glucose concentration and releases insulin when blood glucose levels are high.
3. Name the organ that maintains the water balance of the body.
Answer
The kidneys are responsible for the water balance of the body.
4. What does a spermicide (or spermicidal agent) do ?
Answer
Kill or disable sperm.
5. Explain why the pituitary gland is described as the "master gland".
Answer
The pituitary gland secretes several hormones which act on other glands to stimulate other hormones to be released and bring about effects.
6. Describe how type 1 and type 2 diabetes are caused.
Answer
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body’s cells no longer respond to the insulin produced by the pancreas.
7. Explain what could happen to our body cells if the blood was too dilute.
Answer
Water would enter cells by osmosis, causing them to function inefficiently or to swell and burst.
8. Proteins in the blood can be large molecules. Suggest the reason for the protein concentration of the kidney filtrate and urine.
Answer
Proteins are too big to be filtered out of the blood.
9. Explain what happens when the concentrations of oestrogen and progesterone drop after day 22 of the menstrual cycle.
Answer
The uterus lining breaks down and menstruation (or period) occurs.
10. Suggest some disadvantages of sterilisation.
Answer
Not easily reversed, may be permanent or risk of infection after operation.