Which of the following statements concerning the countercurrent system is incorrect? A) the loops of Henle of juxtamedullary nephrons are responsible for establishing a vertical osmotic gradient in the interstitial fluid of the renal medulla by countercurrent multiplication. B) the active NaCl pump of the ascending limb of Henle's limb can establish a 1,200 mosm/liter concentration difference between the ascending and descending limbs at any given horizontal level. C) by means of countercurrent exchange, the vasa recta preserve the vertical osmotic gradient while supplying blood to the medullary tissue. D) the collecting tubules of all nephrons utilize the driving force of the vertical osmotic gradient to accomplish variable H₂O reabsorption under the control of vasopressin, which governs their permeability. E) the filtrate is isotonic as it enters the loop of Henle, hypertonic at the tip of the loop of Henle, and hypotonic as it leaves the loop of Henle.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The active NaCl pump of the ascending limb of Henle's loop cannot establish a 1,200 mosm/liter concentration difference between the ascending and descending limbs at any given horizontal level. The maximum gradient it can establish is about 200 mosm/liter.

Which of the Following Statements Concerning the Countercurrent System Is