Osmoregulation

4.5 Flashcards

Osmoregulation

The process by which organisms regulate the water and solute concentrations in their bodies to maintain homeostasis.

Osmosis

The movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Water balance

is the maintenance of the appropriate concentration of water and solutes within an organism's cells and fluids to ensure proper physiological function.

Solute concentration

refers to the amount of solute present in a given volume of solvent, affecting the osmotic balance within cells and their environment.

Hypotonic

describes a solution with a lower solute concentration compared to another solution, which can cause cells to swell as water enters.

Hypertonic

describes a solution with a higher solute concentration compared to another solution, which can lead to water leaving cells, causing them to shrink.

isotonic

describes a solution having an equal solute concentration when compared to another solution, resulting in no net movement of water into or out of cells.

Kidneys

organs that filter blood to regulate water and electrolyte balance, excreting waste as urine.

Nephrons

the functional units of the kidneys that filter blood, reabsorb essential substances, and secrete waste.

Collecting duct

a tube in the kidney that carries urine from the nephrons to the renal pelvis, playing a crucial role in concentrating urine and regulating water balance.

Antidiuretic hormone

a hormone that regulates water retention in the kidneys by increasing the permeability of the collecting ducts, thus promoting water reabsorption.

Aldosterone

a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates sodium and potassium levels in the body, influencing blood pressure and fluid balance.