Which of the following describes the order in which blood flows through the nephron?

• A. Glomerulus, afferent arteriole, efferent arteriole, peritubular capillaries
• B. Afferent arteriole, glomerulus, efferent arteriole, peritubular capillaries
• C. Efferent arteriole, glomerulus, afferent arteriole, peritubular capillaries
• D. Peritubular capillaries, afferent arteriole, glomerulus, efferent arteriole

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of the nephron: The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and forming urine. It consists of several parts, including the glomerulus, afferent and efferent arterioles, and peritubular capillaries.
2. Identify the role of the afferent arteriole: The afferent arteriole carries blood to the glomerulus. It is the entry point for blood into the nephron's filtering system.
3. Recognize the function of the glomerulus: The glomerulus is a network of capillaries where blood filtration begins. Blood pressure forces water and solutes out of the blood and into the Bowman's capsule.
4. Determine the path of blood after the glomerulus: The efferent arteriole carries blood away from the glomerulus. It has a smaller diameter than the afferent arteriole, which helps maintain pressure in the glomerulus for filtration.
5. Follow the blood to the peritubular capillaries: After passing through the efferent arteriole, blood enters the peritubular capillaries, which surround the nephron tubules and are involved in the reabsorption and secretion processes.