Differentiate between the following pairs on the basis of what is mentioned in brackets:
Renal cortex and Renal medulla [Parts of the nephrons present]
Topic: Renal cortex and renal medulla
Answer
RENAL CORTEX contains the BOWMAN’S CAPSULES (with their glomeruli), the PROXIMAL convoluted tubules and the DISTAL convoluted tubules.
RENAL MEDULLA contains the LOOPS OF HENLE and the COLLECTING DUCTS.
The brackets specify PARTS OF THE NEPHRON PRESENT, so list them for each region.
FIX IT BY LOGIC rather than memory: FILTRATION must happen where the blood arrives, at the OUTSIDE — hence the Malpighian capsules in the cortex. CONCENTRATION happens as the filtrate travels INWARDS — hence the loops of Henle dipping into the medulla.
THAT ALSO EXPLAINS THEIR APPEARANCE, which another paper asks about directly: rounded capsules and coiled tubules cut in section look DOTTED; straight parallel loops and ducts look STRIPED.
| Point of difference | Renal cortex | Renal medulla |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Outer region | Inner region |
| Parts of the nephron present | Bowman’s capsule, proximal and distal convoluted tubules | Loop of Henle and collecting ducts |
| Appearance | Dotted or granular | Striped |