Which system coordinates long-term processes through hormones rather than nerve impulses?

• A. Endocrine System
• B. Nervous System
• C. Digestive System
• D. Muscular System

Answer: (A)

Chemicals called hormones coordinate long-term processes by traveling through the bloodstream to distant targets. The endocrine system, made up of glands like the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal, releases these hormones to regulate growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress responses over extended periods. Since hormonal signals act more slowly than nerve impulses, their effects tend to develop gradually and last longer, providing sustained control across the body. In contrast, the nervous system uses nerve impulses for rapid, precise communication, producing quick responses to stimuli. The digestive and muscular systems play key roles in processing nutrients and enabling movement, but they’re not the primary pathways for coordinating long-term hormonal signaling.