Kidneys
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, below the ribs. They play a crucial role in maintaining the body's overall health and function by filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood to form urine.
Anatomy of the Kidney
The kidney is composed of three main parts: the renal cortex, renal medulla, and renal pelvis. Each kidney contains millions of nephrons, which are the functional units responsible for filtering the blood and producing urine.
Functions of the Kidneys
- Filtration: The kidneys filter waste products, excess ions, and water from the blood to form urine.
- Regulation of Blood Pressure: The kidneys help regulate blood pressure by controlling the volume of blood and the concentration of salts and water in the body.
- Acid-Base Balance: The kidneys maintain the body's acid-base balance by excreting hydrogen ions and reabsorbing bicarbonate ions.
- Production of Hormones: The kidneys produce hormones such as erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells, and renin, which helps regulate blood pressure.
Common Kidney Disorders
Some common kidney disorders include:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A long-term condition where the kidneys do not function properly, leading to a buildup of waste and fluid in the body.
- Kidney Stones: Hard deposits of minerals and salts that can form in the kidneys and cause severe pain.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections that can affect the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, leading to discomfort and pain.
Keeping Your Kidneys Healthy
To maintain the health of your kidneys, it is important to:
- Stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water.
- Follow a balanced diet low in sodium, processed foods, and excessive protein.
- Exercise regularly to support overall health and maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Manage underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. The Movement of Ocean Water
Study Guide
The Movement of Ocean Water 
Worksheet/Answer key
The Movement of Ocean Water Worksheet/Answer key
The Movement of Ocean Water Worksheet/Answer key
The Movement of Ocean Water Vocabulary/Answer key
The Movement of Ocean Water Vocabulary/Answer key
The Movement of Ocean Water
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
Earth/Space Science: Students will use scientific skills and processes to explain the chemical and physical interactions (i.e., natural forces and cycles, transfer of energy) of the environment, Earth, and the universe that occur over time.
Interactions of Hydrosphere and Atmosphere: Cite evidence to explain the relationship between the hydrosphere and atmosphere.
Identify and describe how the temperature and precipitation in a geographic area are affected by surface features and changes in atmospheric and ocean content: Relative location of mountains; Volcanic eruptions; Proximity to large bodies of water; Heat energy of ocean currents.
Interactions of Hydrosphere and Atmosphere: Recognize and describe the various factors that affect climate.
Identify and describe how the temperature and precipitation of an area are affected by surface and ocean features: Relative location of mountains; Proximity to large bodies of water; Warm and cold ocean currents.
Recognize and describe the global effects of volcanic eruptions, greenhouse gases, and El Nino.