Final answer:
The adrenal gland responds to stress by secreting epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol, which prepare the body for fight-or-flight and long-term stress management.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function of the adrenal gland in relation to sympathetic responses is best represented by option b) Secretion of Epinephrine, Norepinephrine, Cortisol. When faced with stress, the sympathetic nervous system stimulates the adrenal medulla to release epinephrine and norepinephrine. These hormones are pivotal for the fight-or-flight response, which prepares the body to take quick action during potentially threatening situations.
These hormones signal the liver and skeletal muscle cells to convert glycogen into glucose, which increases blood glucose levels. They also elevate the heart rate, pulse, and blood pressure, and trigger the dilation of airways and vasoconstriction to non-essential organs. Furthermore, the adrenal cortex produces corticosteroids like cortisol during prolonged stress, which assists in longer-term stress management by modulating bodily functions like immune response and metabolism.