Human Excretory System (WJEC GCSE Biology)

Revision Note

Emma

Author

Emma

Last updated

Human Excretory System

  • The excretory system removes the waste products of metabolism from the body by filtering the blood and producing urine
  • The excretory system consists of two kidneys joined to the bladder by tubes called ureters
  • Another tube, the urethra, carries urine out of the body from the bladder
  • Each kidney is also connected to:
    • A renal artery which branches from the aorta and delivers blood to the kidney
    • A renal vein which delivers blood from the kidney to the vena cava

Excretory system diagram

The excretory system in humans showing the kidneys, renal arteries, renal veins, aorta, vena cava, ureters, bladder and urethra

The excretory system contains the kidneys and bladder

Structures of the excretory system table

Structure Description
Kidney Two bean-shaped organs that filter blood
Ureter Tube connecting the kidney to the bladder
Bladder Organ that stores urine produced by the kidneys
Urethra Tube through which urine flows from the bladder to the exterior of the body

Examiner Tip

Note the difference between the ureter and the urethra; these two names are commonly confused by students so take care to learn which tube is which – they are NOT interchangeable!

In an exam you may be asked to label the kidneys, renal arteries, renal veins, aorta, vena cava, ureters, bladder, or urethra on a diagram. 

You've read 0 of your 10 free revision notes

Unlock more, it's free!

Join the 100,000+ Students that ❤️ Save My Exams

the (exam) results speak for themselves:

Did this page help you?

Emma

Author: Emma

Expertise: Biology

Prior to working at SME, Emma was a Biology teacher for 5 years. During those years she taught three different GCSE exam boards and two A-Level exam boards, gaining a wide range of teaching expertise in the subject. Emma particularly enjoys learning about ecology and conservation. Emma is passionate about making her students achieve the highest possible grades in their exams by creating amazing revision resources!