What major organs are included in the excretory system?

The excretory system, also known as the urinary system, primarily consists of organs responsible for the removal of waste products from the body and the regulation of water and electrolyte balance. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering blood, removing waste products, and producing urine. This filtered urine is then stored in the bladder until it is excreted from the body.

The kidneys, located on either side of the spine, contain millions of tiny filtering units called nephrons, which carry out the process of filtration and urine formation. The bladder serves as a muscular storage sac that holds urine until it is convenient for the body to eliminate it.

Other options listed involve organs from different organ systems. The heart and lungs are part of the circulatory and respiratory systems, respectively, while the liver and pancreas are key components of the digestive system. The stomach and intestines also belong to the digestive system, responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, rather than directly involved in waste excretion. Hence, the kidneys and bladder are the primary organs associated with the function of the excretory system.