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Multiple Choice
Each kidney has about one million of which structure, the functional unit responsible for urine formation?
A
Nephrons
B
Calyces
C
Glomeruli
D
Renal pyramids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the anatomy of the kidney. The kidney is composed of several structures, including the renal cortex, renal medulla, renal pyramids, calyces, and the functional units called nephrons.
Step 2: Recall the definition of a nephron. A nephron is the microscopic functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood, reabsorbing essential substances, and forming urine.
Step 3: Differentiate between the other options provided. Calyces are structures that collect urine from the renal pyramids and funnel it into the renal pelvis. Glomeruli are part of the nephron, specifically the capillary network involved in filtration. Renal pyramids are cone-shaped tissues in the medulla that contain collecting ducts but are not functional units themselves.
Step 4: Focus on the key phrase 'functional unit responsible for urine formation.' Nephrons are the only structures that fit this description, as they perform filtration, reabsorption, secretion, and excretion processes to form urine.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Nephrons,' as they are the functional units of the kidney responsible for urine formation.