Final answer:
The correct order of events in response to a stressful event is: stressful event; cortisol production; hypothalamus activation. Therefore, the correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct order of events in response to a stressful event is as follows: c) stressful event; cortisol production; hypothalamus activation. When a person perceives something as stressful, the sympathetic nervous system releases adrenaline and triggers fight-or-flight responses. At the same time, the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing factor, which stimulates the pituitary gland to release ACTH. ACTH then activates the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol.