Final Answer:
As drying the mucosa, angiotensin II acting on the hypothalamus, and an increase in the osmotic pressure of interstitial fluid within the hypothalamus can all stimulate thirst.
The correct answer is e) A, B, and C.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thirst is stimulated by various factors that signal the body's need for fluid balance.
Drying the Mucosa (A): When the mucosa of the mouth and pharynx becomes dry, it signals dehydration to the brain, prompting a thirst response.
Angiotensin II (B): Angiotensin II, a hormone, acts on the hypothalamus to stimulate thirst as part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.
Increase in Osmotic Pressure (C): An increase in the osmotic pressure of interstitial fluid within the hypothalamus, indicating higher solute concentration, triggers the thirst sensation.
Option e is the answer.