Which of the following statements best describes the role of the nephron in the urinary system?

• A. The nephron is solely responsible for the formation of urine.
• B. The nephron only filters blood but does not contribute to urine formation.
• C. Urine formation occurs exclusively in the renal pelvis, not the nephron.
• D. The nephron stores urine until it is excreted from the body.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the nephron's role in the urinary system. The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney and is responsible for filtering blood, reabsorbing essential substances, and secreting waste products to form urine.
2. Step 2: Break down the process of urine formation in the nephron. It involves three main steps: filtration (occurs in the glomerulus), reabsorption (occurs in the tubules), and secretion (occurs in the tubules). These processes collectively contribute to urine formation.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the given statements. The nephron is not solely responsible for urine formation, as urine formation involves multiple processes and structures within the kidney. The nephron does not store urine; storage occurs in the bladder. Urine formation does not occur exclusively in the renal pelvis; the renal pelvis collects urine formed by the nephrons.
4. Step 4: Identify the correct statement based on the nephron's role. The nephron is indeed responsible for the formation of urine through filtration, reabsorption, and secretion, making it the primary structure involved in this process.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct description of the nephron's role is that it is responsible for the formation of urine, emphasizing its importance in the urinary system.