In the nephron, what structure is the primary filtration unit of the kidney where blood plasma is filtered to form filtrate?

• A. Renal corpuscle (glomerulus and Bowman's capsule)
• B. Loop of Henle
• C. Collecting duct
• D. Distal convoluted tubule

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the nephron is the functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.
2. Identify the main parts of the nephron: renal corpuscle, proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule, and collecting duct.
3. Recognize that the primary filtration of blood plasma occurs at the renal corpuscle, which consists of the glomerulus (a network of capillaries) and Bowman's capsule (a surrounding structure that collects the filtrate).
4. Know that the glomerulus filters blood plasma based on size and charge, allowing water and small solutes to pass into Bowman's capsule while retaining blood cells and large proteins.
5. Conclude that the renal corpuscle is the site where the initial filtrate is formed, making it the primary filtration unit of the kidney.