Which part of the renal tube is primarily responsible for reabsorbing most solutes and water filtered out of the blood?

Prepare for the Licensed Practical Nurse Exam. Explore flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Achieve exam readiness!

The proximal convoluted tubule is primarily responsible for reabsorbing most solutes and water filtered out of the blood. This part of the renal tubule plays a critical role in the kidney's function by reabsorbing approximately 65-70% of the water and a significant amount of solutes, such as glucose, amino acids, sodium, and bicarbonate.

The cells lining the proximal convoluted tubule have numerous microvilli, which greatly increase the surface area available for reabsorption. Active transport mechanisms allow for these solutes to be moved back into the bloodstream effectively, while water follows by osmosis, maintaining fluid balance. This is crucial for homeostasis and ensuring that essential substances are not lost during the filtration process in the kidneys.

In contrast, while other sections of the renal tube, such as the distal convoluted tubule, Loop of Henle, and collecting duct contribute to the reabsorption process, they do so to a lesser extent compared to the proximal convoluted tubule.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy