Back
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

excrete

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Excretion is the process by which the body removes waste products from the body. These waste products are produced by the body's cells as they break down food and other substances.

The main waste products that are excreted are:

  • Urine: Urine is a liquid waste product that is produced by the kidneys. It contains water, salts, and waste products from the body's cells.
  • Faeces: Faeces are a solid waste product that is produced by the intestines. It contains undigested food, dead cells, and bacteria.
  • Sweat: Sweat is a liquid waste product that is produced by the sweat glands. It contains water, salts, and other waste products.

Excretion is an important process because it helps to keep the body clean and healthy. Waste products can be harmful to the body if they are not removed.

The body's excretory system is made up of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, urethra, intestines, and sweat glands. These organs work together to remove waste products from the body.

How can the word be used?

Excretion is the process by which waste products are removed from the body.

excrete

Different forms of the word

Noun: excretion, waste product.

Adjective: excretory.

Verb: to excrete.

Synonyms: discharge, eliminate, void.

Etymology

The word "excretion" comes from the Latin word excrere, which means "to separate, to discharge." It was first used in English in the 14th century, and it is still used today to refer to the process by which waste products are removed from the body.

Question

What does excrete mean?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the process of excretion in the human body, focusing on the role of major excretory organs. How does the body eliminate waste and maintain homeostasis?

Answer:

Excretion is a vital process that helps the human body maintain internal balance, known as homeostasis. It involves the removal of waste products and toxic substances generated by metabolic activities. The major excretory organs responsible for this function are the kidneys, skin, lungs, and intestines.

The kidneys filter blood to remove nitrogenous waste, such as urea, creatinine, and uric acid, forming urine. This process helps regulate water and electrolyte balance. The skin eliminates waste through sweat, including water, salts, and small amounts of urea. The lungs expel carbon dioxide and some water vapour during respiration, contributing to acid-base balance.

The intestines remove indigestible food remnants, dead cells, and bacteria through faeces. By effectively excreting waste products, the body maintains a stable internal environment, ensuring optimal physiological function.