In the context of the nephron, what is the basic functional unit of the kidney?

• A. Ureter
• B. Renal pelvis
• C. Nephron
• D. Glomerulus

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question asks for the basic functional unit of the kidney, which is responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.
2. Recall the structure of the kidney, which includes the ureter, renal pelvis, nephron, and glomerulus, each with distinct roles.
3. Identify that the ureter is a tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder, so it is not the functional unit.
4. Recognize that the renal pelvis is a funnel-shaped structure collecting urine before it moves to the ureter, so it is also not the functional unit.
5. Know that the nephron is the microscopic structure within the kidney that filters blood, reabsorbs needed substances, and forms urine, making it the basic functional unit of the kidney.