Kidney Structure & Function Quiz

The primary filtration unit in the kidney, composed of a network of capillaries. It filters blood to remove waste products and excess fluids, producing filtrate.

The thin walls of the Glomerulus allow small molecules, waste, and primarily water to pass through, creating filtrate.

A capsule that surrounds the Glomerulus and collects the filtrate produced by the Glomerulus.

The process by which essential nutrients, ions, and water are recovered from the filtrate and returned to the bloodstream.

The primary site for reabsorption in the nephron. It reabsorbs most of the essential nutrients, ions, and water from the filtrate.

A structure in the nephron responsible for creating a concentration gradient in the renal medulla, which is crucial for regulating water reabsorption.

The portion of the loop of Henle that allows water to enter the capillaries via osmosis.

The portion of the loop of Henle that reabsorbs sodium, potassium, and chloride from the filtrate.

The ascending loop of Henle is where essential solutes, including sodium, potassium, and chlorine, are reabsorbed back into the bloodstream.

The medulla's salty environment, created by sodium reabsorption, helps draw water from the filtrate back into the blood.

Reabsorption ensures the body maintains a stable internal environment, including temperature, pH, blood sugar, and water levels.

Substances like medications (e.g., insulin) are transported into the capillaries in the distal tubule.

Finally, urine is formed as the filtrate continues reabsorption through the collecting ducts and renal pelvis.

Aldosterone is a hormone released when the body senses low blood pressure or volume, helping to retain sodium and water.

ADH is another hormone released when blood osmolality is high or blood volume is low, causing the kidneys to conserve water and produce concentrated urine.

Both aldosterone and ADH play crucial roles in regulating water and sodium levels, ultimately helping to maintain a balanced internal environment.