Lesson 1: Introduction

Question 1

The Urinary System

Answer 1

The urinary system is composed of:

Kidneys

Ureters – carry urine from the kidney to the bladder

Urinary Bladder – stores urine

Urethra – the passageway of urine out of the body

Question 2

The Kidney

Answer 2

Humans have two fist sized kidneys, which are found in the lower back on
either side of the spine.

The principal function of the kidney is to filter the blood in order to remove
cellular waste products from the body.

At any give time 20% of the blood is in the kidneys.

Question 3

Kidney Composition

Answer 3

Each Kidney is composed of three
sections:

Cortex – outer section

Medulla

Pelvis – the hollow inner
area where urine collects
before it travels down the
ureters.

Question 4

Kidney Function

Answer 4

The kidneys are one of the major homeostatic organs of the body.

The kidneys secrete the hormone erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood
cell production.

They control:

Water balance

pH

Level of sodium, potassium, bicarbonate and calcium ions in the blood