1. By: Gracie Elmore

2.  The kidneys perform the vital function of regulating water in the body and creating urine.  The kidneys serve the body as a natural filter of the blood, and remove wastes which are diverted to the urinary bladder.  The kidneys excrete wastes such as urea and ammonium, and they are also responsible for the reabsorption of water, glucose, and amino acids.  The kidneys also produce hormones including calcitriol, erythropoietin, and the enzyme renin.

3. A CT scan in which the kidneys are shown

4.  http://www.metacafe.com/watch/3134321/ kidney_function/ http://www.metacafe.com/watch/3134321/ kidney_function/  http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pla yer_detailpage&v=Pz5DHAv_Mw4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pla yer_detailpage&v=Pz5DHAv_Mw4  http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pla yer_embedded&v=aQZaNXNroVY http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pla yer_embedded&v=aQZaNXNroVY