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Multiple Choice
In order for water reabsorption to occur during osmosis in the kidney, the solute concentration of the medulla needs to:
A
be equal to that of the filtrate in the collecting duct
B
be lower than that of the filtrate in the collecting duct
C
remain constant regardless of filtrate concentration
D
be higher than that of the filtrate in the collecting duct
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of osmosis: Osmosis is the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. This principle is key to understanding water reabsorption in the kidney.
Learn about the kidney's medulla and collecting duct: The medulla is the innermost part of the kidney, and the collecting duct is a structure where water reabsorption occurs. The medulla has a high solute concentration, which creates a gradient necessary for osmosis.
Recognize the role of the solute concentration gradient: For water to move out of the filtrate in the collecting duct and into the medulla, the solute concentration in the medulla must be higher than that in the filtrate. This gradient drives water reabsorption.
Understand why the other options are incorrect: If the solute concentration in the medulla were equal to or lower than that of the filtrate, osmosis would not occur because there would be no gradient. Additionally, the solute concentration in the medulla cannot remain constant regardless of filtrate concentration, as the kidney actively adjusts the gradient to regulate water reabsorption.
Conclude that the correct answer is: 'be higher than that of the filtrate in the collecting duct,' because this ensures the osmotic gradient necessary for water reabsorption during kidney function.