Question

select the correct answer.
james was walking down the road when a large animal jumped out in front of him. james was startled and experienced a fast heart rate and heavy breathing. which statement best describes jamess condition in such a situation?
○ a. the adrenal gland secreted aldosterone, increasing sodium absorption, which increased the heart rate and breathing.
○ b. the adrenal gland secreted epinephrine, increasing blood pressure, which increased the heart rate and breathing.
○ c. the adrenal gland secreted androgens, stimulating calcium absorption, which increased the heart rate and breathing.
○ d. the adrenal gland secreted cortisol, increasing glucose absorption, which increased the heart rate and breathing.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Aldosterone regulates sodium/water balance for blood pressure, not direct heart rate/breathing increase in a startle response. Eliminate.
• Option B: Epinephrine (adrenaline) is released in stress/startle. It increases blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. This matches the situation.
• Option C: Androgens are sex hormones, not related to immediate startle - induced physiological changes. Eliminate.
• Option D: Cortisol is for long - term stress and glucose regulation, not the immediate response here. Eliminate.

Answer:

B. The adrenal gland secreted epinephrine, increasing blood pressure, which increased the heart rate and breathing.