Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
The capillary bed fed by an afferent arteriole and drained by an efferent arteriole is a:
A
sinusoid
B
venule
C
arteriovenous anastomosis
D
glomerulus
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the anatomy of the renal system. The glomerulus is a specialized capillary bed located in the kidneys, specifically within the nephron, which is the functional unit of the kidney.
Step 2: Recognize the unique vascular structure of the glomerulus. It is fed by an afferent arteriole, which brings blood into the capillary bed, and drained by an efferent arteriole, which carries blood away. This is distinct from most capillary beds, which are typically drained by venules.
Step 3: Compare the glomerulus to other vascular structures. Sinusoids are irregularly shaped capillaries found in organs like the liver and spleen, venules are small veins that drain capillary beds, and arteriovenous anastomoses are direct connections between arterioles and venules, bypassing capillary beds entirely.
Step 4: Identify the function of the glomerulus. Its primary role is filtration of blood to form the initial filtrate, which will eventually become urine. This filtration process is driven by hydrostatic pressure within the glomerular capillaries.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'glomerulus' based on its unique structure and function, as well as its role in the renal system.