Exemplar Problems

Question:

Explain the structure and function of nephrons within the kidney.

Answer:

Nephrons are the kidney’s functional units, and each kidney contains approximately 1 million of them. A nephron comprises a renal corpuscle, consisting of the glomerulus (capillaries for filtration) and Bowman’s capsule (which collects filtrate), as well as a renal tubule. The tubule includes the proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule, and the collecting duct. Nephrons are responsible for filtering blood, producing urine, and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.