Which of the following is the final segment of the renal tubule of a nephron?

• A. Collecting duct
• B. Loop of Henle
• C. Distal convoluted tubule
• D. Proximal convoluted tubule

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure and function of the nephron, which is the functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.
2. Review the segments of the nephron in order: the proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule, and collecting duct. Each segment has specific roles in filtration, reabsorption, and secretion.
3. Focus on the final segment of the renal tubule, which is the collecting duct. This structure collects urine from multiple nephrons and plays a role in water reabsorption and concentration of urine.
4. Compare the options provided: The proximal convoluted tubule is the first segment, the loop of Henle is involved in creating a concentration gradient, the distal convoluted tubule is involved in selective reabsorption and secretion, and the collecting duct is the final segment.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the collecting duct, as it is the last structure in the renal tubule where urine is collected before being transported to the renal pelvis.