Question

The countercurrent multiplier is a phenomenon that occurs in the ____________ . Countercurrent exchange occurs as both solutes and water move freely in and out of the ____________ . The increase in osmolarity as filtrate moves down the descending limb is due to ____________ moving out of the tubule. The decrease in osmolarity of the filtrate as it moves up the ascending limb is due to ____________ moving out of the tubule. The osmolarity of the filtrate is approximately 100 mOsm/L at the end of the ____________ and around 1200 mOsm/L at the end of the ____________ . The recycling of ____________ out of the collecting duct and back into the nephron loop contributes significantly to the medullary osmotic gradient.

nephron loop vasa recta water solutes ascending limb descending limb urea

Answer 1

The countercurrent multiplier is a phenomenon that occurs in the nephron loop. It involves the movement of solutes and water in and out of the vasa recta. The increase and decrease in osmolarity along the descending and ascending limbs of the loop contribute to the medullary osmotic gradient. Urea recycling plays a significant role in this process.

Step-by-step explanation:

The countercurrent multiplier is a phenomenon that occurs in the nephron loop. Countercurrent exchange occurs as both solutes and water move freely in and out of the vasa recta. The increase in osmolarity as filtrate moves down the descending limb is due to water moving out of the tubule. The decrease in osmolarity of the filtrate as it moves up the ascending limb is due to solutes moving out of the tubule. The osmolarity of the filtrate is approximately 100 mOsm/L at the end of the descending limb and around 1200 mOsm/L at the end of the ascending limb. The recycling of urea out of the collecting duct and back into the nephron loop contributes significantly to the medullary osmotic gradient.