Question

Which of these functions of the kidneys are mismatched? a. excretes metabolic wastes-rids the body of urea b. maintains the water-salt balance-helps regulate blood pressure c. maintains the acid-base balance-rids the body of uric acid d. secretes hormones-secretes erythropoietin e. All of these are correct.

Short answer

c. Maintains the acid-base balance-rids the body of uric acid.

Step-by-step solution

Option a: Excretes metabolic wastes - rids the body of urea

The kidney's primary function is to filter blood, remove waste products, and excrete them as urine. One of the main waste products excreted by kidneys is urea, which is produced from the breakdown of proteins. So, this statement is correct.

Option b: Maintains the water-salt balance - helps regulate blood pressure

Kidneys play an essential role in maintaining the water-salt balance in the body by reabsorbing or excreting the right amount of water and electrolytes (such as sodium and potassium). This balance is crucial for regulating blood pressure. Hence, this statement is also correct.

Option c: Maintains the acid-base balance - rids the body of uric acid

Besides playing a role in maintaining the water-salt balance, kidneys also help maintain the acid-base balance of the body by regulating the pH of the blood. While kidneys do excrete uric acid (produced during the breakdown of nucleic acids), it is not directly related to maintaining the acid-base balance. Therefore, this statement is mismatched.

Option d: Secretes hormones - secretes erythropoietin

Kidneys secrete several hormones, including erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells in bone marrow. This statement is correct.

Answer

Based on the analysis of each option, option c is mismatched. Thus, the answer is: c. Maintains the acid-base balance-rids the body of uric acid.