What do the kidneys produce in order to eliminate harmful metabolic products?

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Study for the UCF ZOO3733C Human Anatomy Test 4. Prepare with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and get explanations for each question. Ace your exam!

The kidneys are vital organs in the body primarily responsible for filtering waste from the blood and regulating fluid and electrolyte balance. They produce urine, which serves as the medium to eliminate harmful metabolic products, such as urea, creatinine, and various toxins.

Urine is formed through the processes of filtration, reabsorption, and secretion. In the filtration stage, blood enters the kidneys through the renal artery, and waste products along with water and electrolytes are filtered out. The kidneys then reabsorb the necessary substances that the body needs, while the remaining waste products are concentrated and excreted as urine.

The production of urine is essential for maintaining homeostasis, regulating blood pressure, and balancing electrolytes, which also relates to the roles of the kidneys in overall body function.