Which gland hangs by a stalk from the hypothalamus at the base of the brain?Multiple choice question.PinealPituitaryThyroidThymus

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the glands listed in the options.
2. Determine which gland is anatomically connected to the hypothalamus.

Relevant Concepts

• The hypothalamus is a region in the brain that controls various autonomic functions and hormone production.
• Certain glands are linked to the hypothalamus, particularly the pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland" because it regulates other endocrine glands.

Analysis and Detail

1. Pineal Gland: Located deep within the brain, it primarily regulates sleep cycles but is not directly connected to the hypothalamus by a stalk.
2. Pituitary Gland: This gland is located just below the hypothalamus and is connected to it via a stalk called the infundibulum. It plays a critical role in regulating hormones.
3. Thyroid Gland: Situated in the neck and regulates metabolism; it is not directly associated with the hypothalamus.
4. Thymus: Located behind the sternum, it is involved in immune system function and not connected to the hypothalamus.

Verify and Summarize

Upon analyzing the options, the pituitary gland is the only structure that is specifically connected to the hypothalamus by a stalk.

Final Answer

Pituitary