Final answer:
After the filtration membrane, the filtrate travels through the glomerulus, proximal convoluted tubule, collecting duct, renal papilla, ureters, bladder, and finally excreted through the urethra.
Step-by-step explanation:
Flow of Filtrate Through Renal Structures
After crossing the filtration membrane, the filtrate flows through a series of renal structures before reaching the bladder. The sequence starts when the filtrate first enters the glomerulus and then proceeds to the proximal convoluted tubule. This is where the filtrate is further modified by mechanisms such as osmosis and active transport. Following this, the fluid moves into the collecting duct, which has a crucial role in reabsorbing water and returning it to the bloodstream. What remains is urine, which then flows into the renal papilla.
The next stage in the journey of urine involves the passage through the ureters, one per kidney, which transports the urine down to the urinary bladder. The bladder acts as a storage area, allowing urine to accumulate until urination occurs. When it's time for excretion, the urine passes from the bladder through the urethra, and finally, it is excreted out of the body through the external urethral opening.
Throughout this process, the urinary system's structures, including the bladder, have walls that allow these organs to expand and contract, accommodating the storing and release of urine efficiently. The ingenious design of the renal system not only stores waste but also protects tissues from urine's variable pH and osmolarity, prevents infection, and in males, assists in reproductive functions.