Which of the following best describes the overall function of hormones?

A. To control physiological processes in the body
B. To stimulate the growth and maturation of body organs
C. To provide a pathway for nerve messages
D. To determine masculine or feminine reproductive traits

http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/hormonal-and-metabolic-disorders/biology-of-the-endocrine-system/endocrine-function

The purpose of the endocrine system, which secretes hormones, is to control growth and development. Which of these answer choices best fits that description?

I will eliminate two answers for you -- answer choices C and D-- to give you a 50/50 chance

I just noticed that I messed up. D is an answer that shouldn't have eliminated, and to be honest, I believe that it is the best answer choice.

To determine which option best describes the overall function of hormones, we need to understand what hormones are and how they work.

Hormones are chemicals produced by the endocrine glands, which are special glands in the body. These chemicals are released into the bloodstream and travel throughout the body to target specific cells or organs. The overall function of hormones is to help regulate and control various physiological processes in the body.

Option A, "To control physiological processes in the body," accurately describes the overall function of hormones. Hormones play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis (the body's stable internal environment) by influencing and regulating processes such as metabolism, growth and development, reproduction, mood, and stress response.

Option B, "To stimulate the growth and maturation of body organs," is partially correct, as certain hormones, such as growth hormone, are involved in promoting growth and development in organs and tissues. However, hormones are not solely responsible for this function.

Option C, "To provide a pathway for nerve messages," does not accurately describe the function of hormones. While hormones do interact with the nervous system, they do so by influencing the activity of nerve cells rather than serving as a pathway for nerve messages.

Option D, "To determine masculine or feminine reproductive traits," is incorrect. While hormones do influence sexual development and reproductive traits, they do not solely determine masculine or feminine traits. The determination of physical characteristics such as sex organs, secondary sexual characteristics, and gender identity involves a complex interplay of genetics, hormones, and environmental factors.

In conclusion, option A, "To control physiological processes in the body," best describes the overall function of hormones.