Chapter 24: The urinary system

Question 1

What are the general functions of the urinary system?

Answer 1

generally production, storage and transport of urine;

Question 2

What are the 4 other more specific functions of the urinary system?

Answer 2

Excretion—elimination of wastes, urea
Water Balance—dehydration results in less urine production
Salt/Mineral/Electrolyte Balance—calcium is one example
Acid-Base/pH Balance—usually elimination of excess hydrogen

Question 3

Where are the kidneys located?

Answer 3

in superior lateral region of posterior abdominal cavity

Question 4

Whats the external structure of the kidneys like?

Answer 4

fibrous/renal capsule on surface surrounded by fat; concave medial renal
hilum

Question 5

What are the 3 main general areas of the kidneys internal gross structure?

Answer 5

renal cortex—light area deep to fibrous capsule
renal medulla—includes 5-11 dark renal pyramids and renal columns between pyramids
renal sinus—includes renal pelvis with 2-3 major calices and 5-11 minor calices branching off

Question 6

What is renal circulation?

Answer 6

kidneys work with blood vessels in performing their functions;
blood vessels supplying blood to, going through, and draining the kidneys of blood