Question

15% of all nephrons; long nephron loops; maintains gradient in medulla and helps conserve water; efferent arterioles branch into vase recta around nephron loop

a. juxtamedullary nephrons
b. the urinary system
c. metabolic waste
d. urea formation

Answer 1

Juxtamedullary nephrons have longer loops of Henle that extend into the medulla and play a vital role in maintaining the concentration gradient and conserving water. They are more effective at regulating urine concentration than cortical nephrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

Juxtamedullary nephrons are a type of nephron in the kidney that have longer loops of Henle, which extend deep into the medulla. These nephrons play a crucial role in maintaining the concentration gradient in the medulla and conserving water. The efferent arterioles branch into the vasa recta, which surround the nephron loops and help with the exchange of solutes and water. Juxtamedullary nephrons are more effective at regulating urine concentration compared to cortical nephrons, which have shorter loops of Henle.