Which organ system is primarily responsible for ridding the body of nitrogen-containing wastes produced during cellular respiration?

• A. Digestive system
• B. Respiratory system
• C. Urinary system
• D. Circulatory system

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the problem: The question asks which organ system is responsible for removing nitrogen-containing wastes produced during cellular respiration. Cellular respiration generates energy, but nitrogen-containing wastes are primarily a byproduct of protein metabolism, not directly of cellular respiration.
2. Clarify the role of nitrogen-containing wastes: These wastes, such as urea, are produced when the body breaks down amino acids during protein metabolism. The liver converts ammonia (a toxic byproduct) into urea, which is less harmful and can be excreted.
3. Identify the organ system responsible for excretion: The urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, is primarily responsible for filtering blood, removing urea, and excreting it in the form of urine.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: The digestive system is involved in nutrient absorption and waste elimination through feces, but not nitrogen-containing wastes. The respiratory system removes carbon dioxide, not nitrogenous wastes. The circulatory system transports substances but does not directly excrete wastes.
5. Conclude: The urinary system is the correct answer because it is specifically designed to remove nitrogen-containing wastes like urea from the body through urine production.