This is a commonly misunderstood biology GK question. The answer depends on the exact phrasing — whether you mean the largest purely endocrine gland or the largest gland overall.
Iodine deficiency causes the thyroid to enlarge, resulting in a condition called Goitre (घेंघा). This is why iodine is added to table salt ('iodized salt') as a public health measure.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Largest purely endocrine gland | Thyroid Gland |
| Largest gland in the human body (overall) | Liver |
| Largest exocrine gland | Liver |
Thyroid Gland (Largest Endocrine Gland):
The Liver is the largest gland in the body (weighing 1.2–1.5 kg). It is a mixed gland — it performs both endocrine functions (producing hormones like IGF-1, angiotensinogen) and exocrine functions (secreting bile into the small intestine through a duct). Because it has a duct, it cannot be classified as purely endocrine.
Remember: Since the liver is a mixed (exocrine + endocrine) gland, the thyroid gland is the answer when asked about the 'largest purely endocrine gland'.
The thyroid gland produces Thyroxine (T4), Triiodothyronine (T3) — which regulate metabolic rate, growth, and development — and Calcitonin, which reduces blood calcium levels.
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