Question

Which of the following is the structural and functional unit of the kidney?

• A. Nephron
• B. Glomerulus
• C. Bowman’s capsule
• D. Loop of Henle

Hint:

Think of the nephron as a mini-processing plant inside the kidney where blood is filtered and urine is formed.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the study of biology, it is crucial to understand the structure and function of organs within the human body. The kidney, a vital organ in the excretory system, is primarily tasked with filtering blood, removing waste, and balancing electrolytes and fluids. The nephron is identified as the structural and functional unit of the kidney.

The nephron is essential because it performs the filtration process in the kidneys. Each nephron is composed of several components including:

• Glomerulus: A network of capillaries where blood filtration begins.
• Bowman’s capsule: A cup-like sac that encases the glomerulus and collects the filtrate.
• Loop of Henle: A U-shaped tube that reabsorbs water and ions from the filtrate.

While the glomerulus, Bowman’s capsule, and Loop of Henle play vital roles in the nephron’s function, it is the nephron as a whole that operates as the kidney’s functional unit. It works in filtering waste products from the blood, reabsorbing essential nutrients, and maintaining overall fluid and electrolyte balance. Thus, the correct answer to which component acts as the fundamental functional and structural unit of the kidney is nephron.