Urinary System and Nephrons Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to the urinary system and nephron function.

Urinary system

The system responsible for the filtration of blood, removal of wastes, and maintenance of water, ions, and pH balance.

Kidneys

Bean-shaped organs that filter blood, remove waste, and produce urine.

Nephrons

The functional units of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.

Bowman's capsule

A cup-like sac that surrounds the glomerulus and participates in blood filtration.

Glomerulus

A cluster of capillaries at the beginning of the nephron where filtration of blood occurs.

Afferent arteriole

Blood vessel that carries blood into the glomerulus.

Efferent arteriole

Blood vessel that carries blood away from the glomerulus.

Proximal convoluted tubule

Segment of nephron where most reabsorption of filtered substances occurs.

Loop of Henle

Part of nephron that reabsorbs water and salts into the blood.

Distal convoluted tubule

Nephron segment involved in regulating fluid and electrolyte balance.

Collecting duct

Structure that funnels urine from the nephron to the urinary bladder.

Renal pelvis

The enlarged upper end of the ureter where urine collects before moving to the bladder.

Cortex

Outer portion of the kidney that contains nephrons and facilitates blood filtration.

Medulla

Innermost part of the kidney that helps regulate urine concentration.

Calyx

Structure that collects urine from the pyramids and channels it to the renal pelvis.

Renal capsule

Thin membrane that surrounds and protects the kidney.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions in the body, including water and electrolyte balance.

Electrolytes

Minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and are essential for bodily functions.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

A gradual loss of kidney function over time, leading to potential kidney failure.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

The rate at which blood is filtered through the glomeruli of the kidneys.

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)

Hormone produced in the hypothalamus that helps regulate water retention in the body.