In renal anatomy, what structure is considered the functional unit of the kidney?

• A. Renal pyramid
• B. Nephron
• C. Renal capsule
• D. Ureter

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the kidney is composed of several anatomical structures, each with specific functions.
2. Identify the renal pyramid as a part of the kidney's medulla that contains collecting ducts but is not the functional unit itself.
3. Recognize the renal capsule as the outer protective layer of the kidney, which does not perform filtration or urine formation.
4. Know that the ureter is a tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder, not involved in the kidney's filtering process.
5. Learn that the nephron is the microscopic structure within the kidney responsible for filtering blood, reabsorbing needed substances, and forming urine, making it the functional unit of the kidney.