What is an example of filtration in the body?
The correct answer and explanation is :
One example of filtration in the body is the process that occurs in the kidneys, specifically in the glomerulus, where blood is filtered to form urine.
Explanation:
Filtration in the kidneys occurs in a structure known as the nephron, which is the functional unit of the kidney. The nephron consists of several parts, but the first and most important in the filtration process is the glomerulus, a small network of capillaries surrounded by a capsule called the Bowman’s capsule.
When blood flows into the glomerulus, the high pressure within these capillaries forces water, small solutes (such as glucose, salts, amino acids), and waste products (like urea) out of the blood and into the Bowman’s capsule. This process is known as glomerular filtration. The filtration barrier is selective, allowing only small molecules and water to pass through while blocking larger molecules, such as proteins and blood cells, from entering the Bowman’s capsule.
This filtered fluid, now called glomerular filtrate, contains useful substances such as water, glucose, and ions that the body needs, as well as waste products that need to be excreted. From the Bowman’s capsule, the filtrate moves into the renal tubules (proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule), where further processing occurs. Here, the body reabsorbs the necessary substances like glucose and most of the water, while waste products such as urea are left behind.
The final product, which is now urine, is collected in the renal pelvis and moves to the bladder for storage and eventual excretion. Filtration in the kidneys is a vital process for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, removing metabolic waste, and regulating blood pressure. It helps the body maintain homeostasis by filtering and reabsorbing necessary substances while eliminating excess waste.