Excretory system
Excretory System
The Excretory System (pronounced: eks-KREH-tor-ee SIS-tem) is a biological system that removes excess, unnecessary materials from the body fluids of an organism, to help maintain internal chemical homeostasis and prevent damage to the body.
Etymology
The term "excretory" is derived from the Latin word "excretus", which means to separate or sift out. The term "system" comes from the Latin word "systema", which means a whole compounded of several parts or members.
Function
The primary function of the Excretory System is to filter out cellular wastes, toxins, and excess substances from the bloodstream. These substances are then eliminated from the body in the form of urine, sweat, and carbon dioxide.
Components
The main components of the Excretory System include the Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder, and Urethra. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the process of excretion.
- Kidneys - These are bean-shaped organs that filter out wastes, toxins, and excess substances from the bloodstream. They also regulate the body's salt, potassium, and acid content.
- Ureters - These are tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
- Bladder - This is a hollow organ that stores urine until it is ready to be excreted from the body.
- Urethra - This is a tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
Related Terms
- Nephron - The functional unit of the kidney, where the filtration of blood takes place.
- Renal Artery - The blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood to the kidneys.
- Renal Vein - The blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood away from the kidneys.
- Urine - The liquid waste product excreted by the kidneys.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Excretory system
- Wikipedia's article - Excretory system
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