7.19B - **Biology Only** Structure and Function of the Nephron Flashcards
What are the small units in the kidney called?
The kidney contains over a million small units called nephrons.
What occurs in the glomerulus?
Filtration, or ultrafiltration, occurs in the glomerulus, a collection of capillaries at the start of the nephron.
What substances can pass from the glomerulus into Bowman’s capsule?
Urea, water, ions, and glucose can pass out of the capillaries into Bowman’s capsule.
What remains in the blood during filtration?
Proteins and cells are too large and remain in the blood.
What happens at the proximal convoluted tubule?
As much glucose as was lost during ultrafiltration is selectively reabsorbed into the blood.
Why is glucose reabsorption important?
Glucose is valuable to the body for energy from respiration, and we do not want it to be excreted.
Where are water and ions reabsorbed in the nephron?
Water and ions are reabsorbed at the Loop of Henle and collecting duct areas of the tubule.
How is the reabsorption of water and ions controlled?
The process is tightly controlled according to the osmotic pressure of the blood.
