Answer – The functional unit of the kidney is called the nephron.

Explanation:

Nephrons are the functional units of the kidney, which means that it is in these structures that the actual filtration of blood and the formation of urine takes place. Each kidney has over a million nephrons present in it. 

Structurally, the nephron has two parts; a renal corpuscular capsule (also called the Bowman’s capsule); and a long tubule (fine tube), approximately 30-55 mm, extending from the capsule and ending in the collecting ducts. The ducts are where the urine is funneled, and they carry it out of the kidney and into the bladder. 

The kidney can be roughly divided into two main sections, the cortex (outer region) and the medulla (inner region). The majority of the nephron is located in the cortex. 

Blood vessels called cortical radiate arteries supply the renal cortex with blood. Here they come in contact with the Bowman’s capsule. It is composed of a cluster of capillaries, collectively called the glomerulus, enclosed by a capsule. The liquid components of blood filter into the glomerulus, and flow into the renal tubule section of the nephron. 

As the filtrate passes through the tubule, secretions and substances are added to it, and some of the water may be reabsorbed. These processes lead to the formation of urine. One section of this tube (Henle’s loop) loops downward into the renal medulla and back into the cortex where it drains its contents (urine) into the collecting duct.

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