Final answer:
The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys and consist of the adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla, which secrete various important hormones.
Step-by-step explanation:
The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys. Therefore, the correct answer is a. kidneys.
The adrenal glands consist of two main parts: the outer adrenal cortex and the inner adrenal medulla. The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing corticosteroids, including glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, which help regulate metabolism, immune response, and salt and water balance.
The adrenal medulla produces catecholamines, including epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are involved in the body's fight-or-flight response. This composite structure of the adrenal glands equips them to play a crucial role in managing stressors and maintaining homeostasis.