Edexcel GCSE Biology

Kidneys & osmoregulation

Edexcel GCSE Biology revision on Kidneys & osmoregulation. Aligned to the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Biology 1BI0 specification. This bank has 5 practice questions on this topic.

Sample questions (3 of 5)

  1. Question 1

    Which structure in the nephron is primarily responsible for the ultrafiltration of blood under high pressure?

    • A) Proximal convoluted tubule
    • B) Glomerulus in Bowman capsule
    • C) Distal convoluted tubule
    • D) Loop of Henle
    Show answer

    Answer: Glomerulus in Bowman capsule

    The afferent arteriole is wider than the efferent arteriole, creating the high pressure needed for ultrafiltration. This pressure forces water, glucose, salts, and urea out of the blood and into the Bowman capsule, forming the glomerular filtrate.

  2. Question 2

    What is the primary effect of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) on the permeability of the collecting ducts?

    • A) It decreases urea reabsorption
    • B) It increases water reabsorption
    • C) It stops glucose reabsorption
    • D) It reduces salt concentration
    Show answer

    Answer: It increases water reabsorption

    When blood water potential is low, the pituitary gland releases ADH. This hormone causes the collecting ducts to become more permeable to water, allowing more water to be reabsorbed back into the bloodstream via osmosis.

  3. Question 3

    Which substance is normally entirely reabsorbed from the filtrate back into the blood in the proximal convoluted tubule?

    • A) Excess urea
    • B) Glucose molecules
    • C) Sodium ions
    • D) Large proteins
    Show answer

    Answer: Glucose molecules

    The proximal convoluted tubule contains many mitochondria to provide energy for the active transport of glucose. Under normal conditions, all glucose is reabsorbed so that it does not appear in the urine.

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