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a. What is the general function of a hormone? Hormones act as chemical messengers in the body - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 1 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 1
a. What is the general function of a hormone? Hormones act as chemical messengers in the body. They are produced by endocrine glands and released into the bloodstre... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:a. What is the general function of a hormone? Hormones act as chemical messengers in the body - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 1 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the general function of a hormone?
Answer
Hormones serve as chemical messengers within the body, coordinating various physiological functions. They are released from endocrine glands into the bloodstream and regulate processes such as growth, metabolism, and the maintenance of homeostasis.
Step 2
Explain whether Emily or Grace had a defect in the blood-glucose homeostatic mechanism. Refer to at least two parts of the graph to support your answer.
Answer
Name of female: Emily
Explanation: Emily's blood glucose level shows a steeper initial rise after the meal compared to Grace. While both women's glucose levels eventually decreased, Emily's levels remained elevated for a longer duration, suggesting a potential defect in her body's response to insulin, which is critical for lowering blood glucose levels.
Step 3
Explain the small rise in her level of glucose between four and five hours after the meal.
Answer
The slight increase in Grace's blood glucose level may be attributed to her body converting glycogen back into glucose during the fasting period. This physiological response ensures a steady supply of energy as the body depletes the immediate glucose from the earlier meal.