Question Details

In the body of a mammal, the largest gland is

Options

A

Thyroid

B

Pancreas

C

Pituitary

D

Liver

Correct Answer :

Liver

Solution :

The correct option is Liver.

In the mammalian body, the liver is classified as the largest gland as well as the largest internal organ. In an adult human, the liver typically weighs between 1.2 to 1.5 kilograms (about 3 pounds) and performs hundreds of essential functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, metabolic regulation, and the secretion of bile (which aids in digestion).

To see why the liver is the largest, we can compare its size and weight to the other options:
1. Liver: Weighs about 1200 to 1500 grams.
2. Pancreas: A lobulated gland located behind the stomach, weighing around 70 to 100 grams.
3. Thyroid: A butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in the neck, weighing approximately 20 to 30 grams.
4. Pituitary: A pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, weighing only about 0.5 grams.

Therefore, the liver is by far the largest gland in the body of a mammal.

Unlock Our Free Library

Access expert-curated educational resources and study materials—completely free.