Question

a) Why is it necessary to maintain a normal osmotic concentration of the blood?

b) If you donate one kidney to a needy patient, would it cause any harm to you? Give reason.

c) In summer the urine is slightly thicker than in winter. Explain the reason. [5 MARKS]

Answer 1

a) 2 Marks
b) 2 Marks
c) 1 Mark

a) It is necessary to maintain a normal osmotic concentration of blood. If the concentration of the blood is higher than the concentration of the body cells, water will be drawn out from the body cells, and the body cells in turn will shrink. If the blood has lower concentration, the body cells will absorb water from the body and the body cells will enlarge in size.

b) If we donate one kidney to a needy patient, it would not cause much harm to us because one kidney alone is sufficient for excretory needs and the person (donor) can lead a normal life.

c) In summer, a considerable amount of water is lost through perspiration and the kidneys have to reabsorb more water from the urine to keep the fluid balanced, thus making it thicker.