Controlling blood water potential

• What is the primary function of the kidneys in mammals?

  To maintain water balance and blood concentration
• Where are the kidneys located in mammals?

  At the back of the abdominal cavity
• What are the two main regions of the kidney?

  • Cortex: lighter outer region
  • Medulla: darker inner region
• What is the role of the large intestine in water regulation?

  It absorbs water and releases it through faeces
• What is osmoregulation?

  Control of blood potential and ion concentration
• What is the structure and function of the nephron?

  • Functional unit of the kidney
  • Narrow, long, tightly packed tube
  • Site of water and substance reabsorption
• What is the renal capsule in the nephron?

  The cup-shaped end known as the glomerulus
• What are podocytes?

  Specialised cells in the renal capsule
• What is the proximal convoluted tubule?

  A series of small capillaries in the cortex
• What is the function of microvilli in the proximal convoluted tubule?

  To increase surface area for absorption
• What is the role of the renal artery?

  Supplies blood to the kidney
• What does the renal vein do?

  Carries blood away from the kidney
• How many nephrons are typically found in each kidney?

  Around one million nephrons
• What are the main components of the nephron?

  • Renal capsule (glomerulus)
  • Proximal convoluted tubule
  • Loop of Henle
  • Distal convoluted tubule
  • Collecting duct