Describe the structure of the kidneys and the functions of the parts of the kidney

Although the kidneys are the major osmoregulatory organ, the skin and lungs also play a role in the process. Water and electrolytes are lost through sweat glands in the skin, which helps moisturize and cool the skin surface, while the lungs expel a small amount of water in the form of mucous secretions and via evaporation of water vapor.

What You’ll Learn to Do

• Describe the structure of the kidneys and the functions of the parts of the kidney
• Describe how the nephron is the functional unit of the kidney and explain how it actively filters blood and generates urine

Learning Activities

The learning activities for this section include the following:

• Kidney Structure
• Kidney Function and Physiology
• Self Check: Kidneys and Osmoregulatory Organs