Question

The gland A is attached to the wind pipe in the human body. The gland A makes and secretes a hormone B which controls the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the body. The non-metal element C is necessary for the formation of hormone B. The deficiency of C in the diet can cause a deficiency of hormone B in the body leading to a disease D in which the neck of a person appears to be swollen. People are advised to use salt E in cooking food so as to avoid disease D.
(a) Name (i) gland A, and (ii) hormone B.
(b) What is the element C?
(c) Name one type of food which can provide sufficient C in the diet of a person.
(d) Name (i) disease D, and (ii) salt E.

Answer 1

1. (i) A represents the thyroid gland. It is attached to the wind pipe in the human body.
2.           (ii) B represents thyroxine. It regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the body.
2. The non-metal element C is iodine. It is essential for the synthesis of thyroxine hormone by the thyroid gland.
3. Sea foods like fish provide sufficient amount of iodine in the diet of a person.
4. (i) D represents the disease called goitre. It is characterised by abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck.

          (ii) E represents iodised salt. It is advised to use iodine in cooking food in order to prevent goitre.