Question

While Ebony was playing a video game and trying to keep our character alive, she started to become anxious, causing her pulse to increase. Which hormone was responsible for this reaction?

1) Adrenaline
2) Insulin
3) Estrogen
4) Testosterone

Answer 1

Adrenaline, or epinephrine, released by the adrenal medulla, is what caused Ebony's increased pulse and anxiety during stressful gaming, as it triggers the fight-or-flight response.

Step-by-step explanation:

The hormone responsible for the increased pulse and anxious feeling Ebony experienced while playing a video game is adrenaline, also known as epinephrine. This hormone is released by the adrenal medulla during short-term stress situations. The release of adrenaline triggers the fight-or-flight response, preparing the body for a quick reaction. Adrenaline increases the heart rate, dilates the bronchioles (which increases oxygen availability), and boosts blood pressure by dilating blood vessels in skeletal muscles, allowing more oxygen to reach the brain and muscles. It also causes the liver and skeletal muscles to break down glycogen, elevating blood glucose levels to provide an immediate energy source.