The gland that is found just below the hypothalamus is the

1. Analyze the question You're asked which endocrine gland sits directly below the hypothalamus in the brain.

2. Explain the concept The hypothalamus is a small region at the base of the brain. It links the nervous system to the endocrine system. Directly beneath it, attached by a stalk (the infundibulum), is the pituitary gland, often called the "master gland." The hypothalamus controls it by sending releasing and inhibiting hormones, and the pituitary in turn controls other glands such as the thyroid, adrenals, and gonads.

3. Go through the options

• A. Parathyroid: four tiny glands at the back of the thyroid in the neck. They regulate blood calcium. Not in the brain.
• B. Adrenal: sits on top of each kidney. It produces adrenaline and cortisol. Not in the brain.
• C. Pituitary: lies in a small bony hollow (sella turcica) just below the hypothalamus. This is correct.
• D. Thyroid: found in the neck, in front of the trachea. It produces thyroxine. Not in the brain.

4. Answer The correct option is C. pituitary.

5. Exam tip Remember the order from top to bottom: Hypothalamus → Pituitary. "Hypo" means under, and the hypothalamus sits under the thalamus, while the pituitary hangs under the hypothalamus. Any question that mentions the brain and an endocrine gland usually points to the pituitary.