What is the primary function of the glomerulus in the kidney?

The primary function of the glomerulus in the kidney is to filter blood to produce filtrate. The glomerulus is a network of tiny blood vessels, or capillaries, located within the nephron, the functional unit of the kidney. As blood flows through the glomerulus, it undergoes filtration where water, salts, glucose, amino acids, and waste products are separated from the blood cells and larger proteins, which remain in the bloodstream. This process results in the formation of a filtrate that will eventually be processed into urine.

The efficiency of this filtration process is crucial for the kidney's ability to regulate fluid and electrolyte balance in the body while removing waste products. The filtrate collected then travels through the nephron where further reabsorption and secretion occur before the final formation of urine.