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How do juxtamedullary nephrons differ from cortical nephrons?

a) Juxtamedullary nephrons are shorter
b) Juxtamedullary nephrons have a longer loop of Henle
c) Cortical nephrons have a higher filtration rate
d) Cortical nephrons are located in the medulla

User Romerun
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Juxtamedullary nephrons have a longer loop of Henle compared to cortical nephrons, allowing for better regulation of urine concentration by extending into the renal medulla and efficiently recovering Na+ and water.

Step-by-step explanation:

Juxtamedullary nephrons differ from cortical nephrons in several ways, but particularly in the length of the loop of Henle. Juxtamedullary nephrons have a longer loop of Henle, which extends deep into the renal medulla. This structure allows them to regulate urine concentration more effectively. In contrast, cortical nephrons typically have a short loop of Henle that does not extend far into the renal medulla. The loop of Henle in the juxtamedullary nephrons is highly specialized, allowing for efficient recovery of Na+ and water, crucial for maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance.

This setup is key in the process that generates a concentrated urine, conserving water for the body.Juxtamedullary nephrons differ from cortical nephrons in several ways. One key difference is that juxtamedullary nephrons have a longer loop of Henle, while cortical nephrons have a shorter loop of Henle. This difference allows juxtamedullary nephrons to regulate urine concentration better than cortical nephrons.

User Stephen Turner
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