Kidney Structure and Function The excretory system of mammals relies on a pair of kidneys that maintain water and electrolyte balance in the body. Hormones such as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), aldosterone, and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) regulate kidney function. Part A – Identifying the structures of the kidney Label the diagram of the kidney and nephron below. Drag the labels to their appropriate locations on the diagram below. Labels can be used once, more than once, or not at all.
Drag the labels to their appropriate locations on the diagram below. Labels can be used once, more than once, or not at all.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
I cannot view external images directly. However, I can help you by explaining the kidney and nephron structures, and I can also assist in identifying the correct labels for your diagram.
Key Structures of the Kidney:
- Cortex: The outer part of the kidney. It contains the renal corpuscles and convoluted tubules.
- Medulla: The inner region of the kidney, consisting of renal pyramids and collecting ducts.
- Renal Pyramid: A section of the medulla, with a triangular shape. It contains the loops of Henle and collecting ducts.
- Renal Pelvis: The funnel-shaped structure that collects urine from the calyces and leads to the ureter.
- Ureter: The tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder.
- Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and forming urine. It consists of:
- Bowman’s Capsule: The structure that encapsulates the glomerulus and initiates filtration.
- Glomerulus: A network of capillaries inside Bowman’s capsule where blood is filtered.
- Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT): The first segment after Bowman’s capsule where most of the reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients occurs.
- Loop of Henle: A U-shaped tube that helps concentrate urine by allowing water and salts to be reabsorbed.
- Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT): Involved in further reabsorption and secretion of ions and other substances.
- Collecting Duct: Receives urine from multiple nephrons and further reabsorbs water, helping to concentrate urine.
Kidney Function:
The kidneys filter blood to remove waste and excess substances, forming urine. Key functions include:
- Filtration: Blood enters the nephron through the glomerulus, where water, waste, and small solutes are filtered into the Bowman’s capsule.
- Reabsorption: Essential substances such as glucose, amino acids, and water are reabsorbed in the PCT and loop of Henle.
- Secretion: Additional waste products are secreted into the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts.
- Excretion: The final urine is collected in the renal pelvis and carried to the bladder via the ureter for excretion.
For labeling your diagram, these are some of the key terms that should be placed in the appropriate locations on the diagram.