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Multiple Choice
What is the primary effect of the countercurrent multiplier in the loop of Henle?
A
It increases blood pressure by enhancing sodium reabsorption in the distal tubule.
B
It dilutes urine by increasing water reabsorption in the proximal tubule.
C
It concentrates urine by creating a hyperosmotic medullary interstitium.
D
It decreases glomerular filtration rate by constricting the afferent arteriole.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of the loop of Henle: The loop of Henle is a part of the nephron in the kidney that plays a crucial role in concentrating urine and conserving water.
Learn about the countercurrent multiplier system: This system involves the interaction between the descending and ascending limbs of the loop of Henle, which creates a gradient of increasing osmolarity in the medullary interstitium.
Recognize the role of the descending limb: The descending limb is permeable to water but not to solutes, allowing water to leave the tubule and enter the medullary interstitium, increasing the concentration of the filtrate.
Identify the function of the ascending limb: The ascending limb is impermeable to water but actively transports sodium and chloride ions out of the tubule into the interstitium, which helps to maintain the osmotic gradient.
Conclude the primary effect: The countercurrent multiplier system effectively concentrates urine by creating a hyperosmotic medullary interstitium, which allows for the reabsorption of water from the collecting ducts under the influence of antidiuretic hormone (ADH).