Which of the following helps maintain a high solute concentration in the kidney medulla?
A)high urea concentration in medulla
B)active transport of solutes from ascending limb
C)the vasa recta
D)functions of the loop of Henle
E)All of these choices are correct

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of these choices contribute to maintaining a high solute concentration in the kidney medulla. The high urea concentration in the medulla helps to maintain osmotic balance between the medulla and the descending limb of the loop of Henle. The active transport of solutes, such as sodium and chloride ions, from the ascending limb of the loop of Henle also contributes to the high solute concentration. The vasa recta, specialized capillaries surrounding the loop of Henle, help to maintain the concentration gradient by preventing the loss of solutes from the medulla. Finally, the function of the loop of Henle, by establishing a concentration gradient, helps to maintain a high solute concentration in the medulla.

Which of the Following Helps Maintain a High Solute Concentration