The Excretory System

The purpose of the Excretory System

lTo remove metabolic waste.

lMetabolic – having to do with the various processes of the body. Examples would include respiration and the breakdown of food in the digestive system

Metabolic Wastes handled by the Excretory System

lCarbon Dioxide which is produced during respiration.

lUrea which is produced when proteins are broken down.

lExcess Water produced both during respiration and digestion.

The organs of the Excretory System

lLungs

lLiver – heaviest organ of the body.

lKidneys – the main organs associated with the Excretory system.

lSkin – largest organ of your body

Which organ removes what waste?

lLungs remove carbon dioxide and water vapor when you exhale

lLiver removes old red blood cells and other toxins.

lKidneys process urea into urine (which is stored in the bladder)

lSkin removes salts and excess water in the form of sweat.

Functions of the Kidneys

lHelps to maintain homeostasis

–Homeostasis – the process by which an organism’s internal environment is kept stable in spite of changes in the external environment.

–Kidneys help regulate the water in our bodies.

lCan also help doctors diagnose certain illnesses – such as diabetes (if there is glucose in the urine)