5.1.2: Excretion Flashcards
What is a nephron?
Structures within the kidney where blood is filtered and useful substances are reabsorbed into the blood.
What is the function of the Bowman’s (renal) capsule?
Ultrafiltration occurs here due to high hydrostatic pressure, forcing small molecules and water out of the capillaries.
What is the role of the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)?
Walls made of microvilli epithelial cells provide a large surface area for diffusion of glucose into the cells.
What happens to glucose in the proximal convoluted tubule?
Glucose is actively transported out of the cells into the intercellular space to create a concentration gradient.
What is the function of the Loop of Henle?
Sodium ions are actively transported out of the ascending limb to create a low water potential.
How does water move in the Loop of Henle?
Water moves out of the descending limb and distal convoluted tubule by osmosis due to the water potential gradient.
What does the liquid remaining in the collecting duct form?
Urine, which contains water, dissolved salts, urea, and other substances such as hormones.
Fill in the blank: The _______ is where ultrafiltration occurs in the nephron.
Bowman’s capsule
True or False: The efferent arteriole is wider than the afferent arteriole.
False
What structures are included in kidney anatomy?
- Nephron
- Hilum
- Renal artery
- Renal vein
- Renal cortex
- Renal medulla
- Renal pyramids
- Renal pelvis
- Ureter
- Major calyx
- Minor calyx
- Renal columns
- Fibrous capsule
What is the purpose of the renal artery?
To supply blood to the kidneys.
What does the renal vein do?
Carries filtered blood away from the kidneys.
