AP Psychology Practice Test

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Study for the AP Psychology Exam with a comprehensive quiz that includes flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question is accompanied by hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What does the hypothalamus help to govern?

Muscle movement
Emotion only
Endocrine system and maintenance activities
Sensory information processing

The correct answer is: Endocrine system and maintenance activities

The hypothalamus is a key structure located in the brain that plays a crucial role in governing various physiological processes. It serves as a control center for the endocrine system by regulating hormone release from the pituitary gland, which in turn affects numerous bodily functions such as growth, metabolism, and stress response. Additionally, the hypothalamus is involved in several maintenance activities essential for survival, including the regulation of hunger, thirst, body temperature, and circadian rhythms. By maintaining homeostasis—an optimal internal environment—the hypothalamus ensures that the body functions effectively. Understanding how the hypothalamus integrates with both the endocrine system and its role in various maintenance activities highlights its importance in overall health and behavior. This encompasses the regulation of emotional responses related to basic drives such as hunger and sexual behavior, but the focus is broader in terms of its influence over essential bodily functions that keep the organism balanced and alive.