Describe the function of the glomerulus and Bowman's capsule, and explain kidney failure and its treatment.

Here's the breakdown of the nephron diagram:

a) Identify the parts labelled K and L.

• K: Glomerulus
• L: Bowman's capsule

b) (i) Name two substances present in the fluid in K but absent from the fluid in M.

1. Proteins
2. Blood cells

b) (ii) Give two reasons for your answer in (b)(i) above.

1. Proteins and blood cells are too large to pass through the pores of the glomerular capillaries.
2. The filtration membrane in Bowman's capsule prevents their passage.

c) (i) State one common disorder associated with the kidney.

• Kidney failure

c) (ii) Explain how the disorder in (c)(i) can be treated.

• Kidney failure can be treated with dialysis. This involves using an artificial kidney machine to filter the patient's blood, removing waste products and excess fluid when the kidneys are no longer able to perform this function. Alternatively, a kidney transplant can be performed, replacing the diseased kidney with a healthy one from a donor.