Electrolysis Practice Exam

Which gland is responsible for controlling the metabolic rate of the body?

1. Pancreas

2. Adrenal gland

3. Thyroid gland

4. Pituitary gland

The correct answer is: Thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is crucial for controlling the metabolic rate of the body. It produces hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which directly influence how quickly the body uses energy, synthesizes proteins, and regulates other hormones. When the thyroid gland releases these hormones into the bloodstream, they help regulate metabolism, which is essential for maintaining bodily functions such as temperature, heart rate, and overall energy levels. The pancreas, though important for regulating blood sugar levels through insulin and glucagon, does not primarily control metabolic rate. The adrenal gland produces hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which are involved in stress responses but not directly in metabolic rate regulation. The pituitary gland serves as a master gland that influences other glands, including the thyroid, but it does not directly control metabolic rate on its own. Thus, the thyroid gland is the key player in this function.