Question

which of the following correctly describes the process of glomerular filtration?
a blood cells and plasma proteins are pushed out of the glomerulus into the glomerular capsule.
b water, nitrogenous wastes, nutrients, and ions are pushed out of the glomerulus into the glomerular capsule.
c water and dissolved substances move out of the glomerulus by osmosis into the glomerular capsule.
d water and formed elements are pushed out of the glomerulus into the glomerular capsule.

Explanation:

To determine the correct description of glomerular filtration:

• Option A is incorrect because blood cells and plasma proteins are too large to pass through the glomerular filtration membrane, so they stay in the blood.
• Option B is correct. Glomerular filtration pushes water, nitrogenous wastes, nutrients, and ions (small solutes) out of the glomerulus (capillary) into the glomerular capsule (Bowman's capsule) due to hydrostatic pressure. These substances are small enough to pass through the filtration membrane.
• Option C is incorrect. Glomerular filtration is driven by hydrostatic pressure, not osmosis. Osmosis is more involved in reabsorption later in the nephron.
• Option D is incorrect. Formed elements (like blood cells) are too large to be filtered out; they remain in the glomerular capillaries.

Answer:

B. Water, nitrogenous wastes, nutrients, and ions are pushed out of the glomerulus into the glomerular capsule.