What is the primary role of the nephron in relation to osmoregulation?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the primary function of the nephron in the process of osmoregulation, which involves maintaining the body's water and salt balance. It presents multiple choice options that provide different functions of the nephron, and we are to identify which one is the most accurate regarding its role in this process.
Answer
To filter and exchange water and solutes, maintaining osmotic balance.
The primary role of the nephron in relation to osmoregulation is to filter and exchange water and solutes, maintaining the osmotic balance of body fluids.
Answer for screen readers
The primary role of the nephron in relation to osmoregulation is to filter and exchange water and solutes, maintaining the osmotic balance of body fluids.
More Information
Nephrons are essential in the kidney's function of maintaining water and solute balance in the body, which is crucial for preventing dehydration or overhydration and maintaining overall health.
Tips
A common misconception is confusing the filtering action with simply eliminating substances, but it also involves reabsorption and balancing solutes.
Sources
- The Kidneys and Osmoregulatory Organs - opentextbc.ca
- The Mammalian Kidney: How Nephrons Perform Osmoregulation - organismalbio.biosci.gatech.edu
- Physiology, Osmoregulation and Excretion - StatPearls - NCBI - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
