Exemplar Problems

Question:

Describe the structure of a kidney, highlighting its key components and functions.

Answer:

The kidney is a vital organ in the abdominal cavity, responsible for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. It is bean-shaped and located on either side of the spine. It consists of an outer cortex and an inner medulla, with a renal hilum on the medial side for connections to blood vessels, nerves, and the ureter. The renal pelvis collects urine from nephrons and funnels it into the ureter. The renal artery delivers oxygenated blood, while the renal vein carries deoxygenated, filtered blood away.