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Multiple Choice
Which region of the kidney is the most superficial?
A
Renal medulla
B
Renal cortex
C
Renal capsule
D
Renal pelvis
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the anatomy of the kidney: The kidney is divided into several regions, including the renal cortex, renal medulla, renal capsule, and renal pelvis. Each region has distinct functions and locations.
Define 'superficial': In anatomical terms, 'superficial' refers to a structure closer to the surface of the body or organ.
Analyze the options: The renal capsule is the outermost layer of the kidney, but it is not considered a functional region. The renal cortex is the outer functional region of the kidney, located just beneath the renal capsule. The renal medulla is deeper within the kidney, and the renal pelvis is the innermost part where urine collects.
Compare the regions: The renal cortex is the most superficial functional region of the kidney, as it lies directly beneath the renal capsule and is closer to the surface compared to the renal medulla or renal pelvis.
Conclude: Based on the anatomical definitions and locations, the renal cortex is the correct answer as the most superficial region of the kidney.