Question

Hormonal system is very important because (a) Neural coordination is fast (b) Nerve fibres do not innervate all the cells of body. (c) Neural system provides point to point coordination among organs. (d) Neural coordination is short-lived.

Short answer

The correct answer explaining why the hormonal system is crucial is option (b): 'Nerve fibres do not innervate all the cells of the body.' The hormonal system is very important as it is able to regulate biological functions in all cells of the body, differing from the neural system which cannot reach all the cells directly.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Neural Coordination

Neural coordination refers to the process by which the nervous system transmits signals from the nerves to the target cells, causing an immediate response. This system is indeed fast and provides point-to-point communication, hence options (a) and (c) could apply to neural coordination but do not exclusively explain the importance of the hormonal system.

Considering the Hormonal System

The hormonal system, on the other hand, is a slow and long-lasting method of coordination that affects virtually all cells in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers released by glands in the endocrine system that regulate specific biological functions by acting on target cells. Thus, option (b) mirrors the scope and functionality of the hormonal system.

Elimination of Other Cases

Looking at option (d), indeed while the neural coordination's impact is quick and short-lived, this does not highlight the significance of the hormonal system, and hence can be eliminated too.

Key concepts

Hormonal Coordination

Hormonal coordination is a slower, but long-lasting, method of regulating the body’s various functions. This process involves the release of hormones, which are chemical messengers, by glands in the endocrine system. Once released, these hormones travel through the bloodstream to reach target cells or organs.

Unlike neural coordination, which is fast and targeted, hormonal coordination affects a broad range of cells throughout the body. This widespread influence is crucial because it can regulate complex processes such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction. Hormones ensure that the body's internal environment remains stable, a principle known as homeostasis.

The effects of hormones can be sustained over a significant amount of time compared to neural signals. For example, the hormone insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels, and its action continues until glucose levels stabilize.

Neural Coordination

Neural coordination involves the nervous system transmitting electrical signals through neurons. This method of coordination is extremely fast, ensuring the body can respond immediately to changes in the environment. For instance, if you touch a hot surface, neural coordination allows you to quickly retract your hand.

One key feature of neural coordination is its point-to-point communication. Specific nerves target specific cells, resulting in precise and localized responses. This precision is vital for functions like muscle contraction and sensation.

However, neural coordination is generally short-lived. Once the nerve signal has been delivered and the immediate response has occurred, its effect diminishes quickly. This makes it suitable for rapid responses but less effective for long-term regulation.

Chemical Messengers

Chemical messengers like hormones play an essential role in both hormonal and neural coordination. Hormones are the primary chemical messengers in the endocrine system, responsible for carrying signals from glands to target organs or cells.

These chemical messengers function by binding to specific receptors on their target cells, initiating a cell-specific response. While hormonal messengers act broadly and slowly, neurotransmitters serve as the chemical messengers in neural coordination. Neurotransmitters cross synapses to transmit signals between neurons or from neurons to muscles, facilitating quick responses.

Both types of chemical messengers ensure the cells in different systems of the body communicate effectively, maintaining balance and coordination essential for health and survival.