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The pituitary gland plays a critical role in physical development primarily through its secretion of growth hormones. These hormones, particularly growth hormone (GH), are essential for promoting growth in tissues and organs. They stimulate the growth of bones and muscles during childhood and adolescence, thus contributing to overall physical development.

In addition to growth hormone, the pituitary gland releases other important hormones, such as thyroid-stimulating hormone, which influences metabolic processes, and sex hormones that contribute to the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty. The collective action of these hormones ensures not just linear growth in height but also the overall physical maturation of the body.

While the other options involve processes that are also important to human functioning, they do not directly pertain to the specific role of the pituitary gland in promoting physical growth and development. The release of oxygen is a function of the respiratory system, regulating sleep patterns is primarily associated with the pineal gland's secretion of melatonin, and emotional responses are largely controlled by various parts of the brain, including the limbic system.