Question

The function of the descending limb of the loop of the nephron in the process of urine formation is a. reabsorption of water c. reabsorption of solutes. b. production of filtrate. d. secretion of solutes.

Short answer

The function of the descending limb of the loop of the nephron in the process of urine formation is a. reabsorption of water.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the nephron structure

In order to find the correct answer, it's essential to understand the nephron's structure and functions. The nephron is the most basic unit of the kidney, responsible for filtering the blood and producing urine. It has several parts, including the glomerulus, Bowman's capsule, the proximal convoluted tubule, the loop of Henle (with a descending and ascending limb), and the distal convoluted tubule.

Know the function of the descending limb of the loop of Henle

The descending limb of the loop of Henle is responsible for reabsorbing water from the filtrate, making the filtrate more concentrated and reducing the volume of urine produced. This process is crucial for the conservation of water in the body. Now let's analyze each option to see which one is correct:

Option A

a. Reabsorption of water: This statement is correct. As mentioned previously, the primary function of the descending limb of the loop of Henle is to reabsorb water from the filtrate and concentrate it.

Option B

b. Production of filtrate: This statement is incorrect. The production of filtrate primarily occurs in the glomerulus and Bowman's capsule.

Option C

c. Reabsorption of solutes: This statement is incorrect. The solutes are predominantly reabsorbed in the proximal convoluted tubule and the ascending limb of the loop of Henle.

Option D

d. Secretion of solutes: This statement is incorrect. The secretion of solutes primarily occurs in the distal convoluted tubule. Based on the analysis, the correct answer is: a. Reabsorption of water.