What features of the nephron allow ultrafiltration to take place in the kidneys?

The glomerulus is a knot of cappilaries inside the Bowman's capsule. The afferent arteriole (small blood vessel leading into the glomerulus) has a much larger diameter than the efferent arteriole (small blood vessel leaving the glomerulus). This creates a build up of pressure, forcing the small molecules in the plasma like water and urea out of the glomerulus and into the Bowmans capsule via podocytes. Podocytes are cells that have 'foot-like extensions' which are wrapped around a capillary. This increases the surface area for filtration.

LE
Answered by Laura E. Biology tutor

25338 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I approach the 8-10 mark questions on a paper?


Describe the processes which occur that allow synaptic transmission


In mutations, what are the possible ways in which the DNA can be modified to make the proteins from which it is produced, non-functional or inactivated?


Explain how the proteins troponin, tropomyosin, actin and myosin regulate muscle contraction.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences