Which option best describes the primary function of hormones?

• A. To act as chemical messengers to regulate body processes
• B. To break down carbohydrates
• C. To transport oxygen
• D. To store energy

Answer: (A)

Hormones act as chemical messengers that regulate many body processes. They’re produced by glands, released into the bloodstream, and travel to target cells with specific receptors to trigger precise responses that help maintain balance in metabolism, growth, stress responses, reproduction, and more. For example, insulin helps cells take up glucose after meals, while adrenaline readies the body for quick action by increasing heart rate and energy availability. Other options describe roles outside hormones’ main function: breaking down carbohydrates is the job of digestive enzymes; transporting oxygen is done by red blood cells and hemoglobin; storing energy involves tissues like fat and liver, with hormones mainly guiding these processes rather than being the primary function.