Which structure listed is a component of the nephron?

Which structure listed is a component of the nephron?

• A. proximal convoluted tubule
• B. renal pelvis
• C. ureter
• D. calyx

Answer: (A)

The key idea is distinguishing parts of the nephron from the kidney’s urine-drainage system. The proximal convoluted tubule is a true component of the nephron; it sits directly after Bowman's capsule and is the major site where most filtrate is reabsorbed back into the blood, aided by its abundant microvilli that increase surface area for reabsorption. In contrast, the renal pelvis, calyces, and ureter are part of the collecting system that transports urine out of the kidney, not parts of a single nephron. So the proximal convoluted tubule is the structure that fits as a nephron segment.

The key idea is distinguishing parts of the nephron from the kidney’s urine-drainage system. The proximal convoluted tubule is a true component of the nephron; it sits directly after Bowman's capsule and is the major site where most filtrate is reabsorbed back into the blood, aided by its abundant microvilli that increase surface area for reabsorption. In contrast, the renal pelvis, calyces, and ureter are part of the collecting system that transports urine out of the kidney, not parts of a single nephron. So the proximal convoluted tubule is the structure that fits as a nephron segment.