A LevelBiologyCambridge (CIE)Revision Notes14. HomeostasisHomeostasis in MammalsNephron Structure

Nephron Structure (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 9700

Emma Archbold

Written by: Emma Archbold

Reviewed by: Alistair Marjot

Updated on

Nephron structure

  • Each kidney contains thousands of tiny tubes, known as nephrons

  • The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney—the nephrons are responsible for the formation of urine

Diagram of a kidney and nephron labelled with structures like the cortex, medulla, ureter, renal pelvis, glomerulus, and Loop of Henle.
The location and structure of a nephron within the kidney across the cortex and the medulla

Examiner Tips and Tricks

As well as in diagrams, you should be able to identify the parts of the nephron described above in photomicrographs and electron micrographs too (examples of these can be found online or in your Cambridge International AS & A Level coursebook).

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    Author
    Reviewer
    Emma Archbold

    Author: Emma Archbold

    Expertise: Biology Content Creator

    Prior to working at SME, Emma was a Biology teacher for 5 years. During those years she taught three different GCSE exam boards and two A-Level exam boards, gaining a wide range of teaching expertise in the subject. Emma particularly enjoys learning about ecology and conservation. Emma is passionate about making her students achieve the highest possible grades in their exams by creating amazing revision resources!

    Alistair Marjot

    Reviewer: Alistair Marjot

    Expertise: Environmental Systems and Societies & Biology Content Creator

    Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.