Urinary System Structures and Functions Create a Urinary System Folder in eBackpack Open Structure and Function notes

Functions of the Urinary System 1.To remove certain salts and nitrogenous wastes (wastes made by cellular processes)

2.To maintain normal concentrations of water and electrolytes through urine output

3. To regulate the pH of body fluids.

Kidneys- Maintain homeostasis by regulating the composition, volume and pH of extracellular fluid Structure 2 12 cm long, 6 cm wide located on posterior abdominal wall Surrounded by connective and adipose tissue Function Connects kidneys to body wall and serves as protection for kidneys

Kidney- continued Structure Covered by a heavy capsule of dense connective tissue Functional units are called nephrons Function Prevents kidney from swelling, forcing urine outward Produce urine Remove wastes, water, salts, and bile pigments from blood Important role in maintaining homeostasis- balance water, pH, salts

Ureters Structure 2 tubes Made of 3 muscular layers Function Transport the urine made in the kidneys to the bladder Contract in peristaltic waves

Bladder Structure Hollow sac in pelvic cavity Muscular Pressure receptors Function Stores urine Allows bladder to expand and contract Send messages urging urination at 200 mL, at 400mL you feel like you will burst

Urethra Structures Tube 3.8 cm long in females 20 cm long in males Function Carries urine from the bladder to the urinary meatus.