Which hormone is a classic example of an adrenal cortical hormone?

The correct option is an example of an adrenal cortical hormone because it is produced in the adrenal glands, specifically in the adrenal cortex. The adrenal cortex produces several key hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens, which play significant roles in metabolic processes, blood pressure regulation, and secondary sexual characteristics.

Adrenaline, on the other hand, is primarily associated with the adrenal medulla and is responsible for the body's fight-or-flight response. In contrast, melatonin is produced by the pineal gland and regulates sleep cycles; thyroid hormones, produced by the thyroid gland, are involved in metabolism and growth; and insulin is secreted by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels.

Recognizing the specific source of hormone production is crucial in understanding their physiological functions. The adrenal cortex and medulla, despite both being parts of the adrenal glands, produce distinct hormones that serve fundamentally different roles in the body.