Anatomy & Physiology of the Kidney & Urinary System

A: The nephron

A: About one million nephrons per kidney

A: Removes waste products from metabolism and endocrine & homeostatic excesses

A:

1. Removes metabolic and toxic waste from the body

2. Maintains a favorable water balance

3. Conserves or excretes electrolytes

4. Regulates acid-base balance

5. Acts as an endocrine structure (renin production and vitamin D activation)

A: About 25 cm (10 inches)

A: Transports urine from the kidneys to the bladder

A: An oblique angle acting as a valve at the bladder

A: Temporary storage of urine

A: Approximately 150 mL before urge to empty

A: transfers urine from the bladder to the exterior

A: Autonomic nervous system (involuntary)

A: Voluntary control

A: About 20 cm (8 in)

A: About 4 cm (1.5 in)