1Q: What is the functional unit of the kidney?
A: The nephron
2Q: How many nephrons are in each kidney?
A: About one million nephrons per kidney
3Q: What is the role of the kidney regarding waste products?
A: Removes waste products from metabolism and endocrine & homeostatic excesses
4Q: What are the five functions of the kidney?
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)
5Q: What is the length of the ureter?
A: About 25 cm (10 inches)
6Q: What is the function of the ureter?
A: Transports urine from the kidneys to the bladder
7Q: What prevents back-flow of urine in the ureter?
A: An oblique angle acting as a valve at the bladder
8Q: What is the bladder’s function?
A: Temporary storage of urine
9Q: What is the normal bladder capacity?
A: Approximately 150 mL before urge to empty
10Q: What is the function of the urethra?
A: transfers urine from the bladder to the exterior
11Q: What controls the internal urethral sphincter?
A: Autonomic nervous system (involuntary)
12Q: What controls the external urethral sphincter?
A: Voluntary control
13Q: What is the length of the male urethra?
A: About 20 cm (8 in)
14Q: What is the length of the female urethra?
A: About 4 cm (1.5 in)