What is the part of the nephron that empties into the collecting duct?

The distal convoluted tubule is the correct part of the nephron that empties into the collecting duct. This segment is located after the loop of Henle and is responsible for further refining the filtrate through processes such as selective reabsorption and secretion.

The distal convoluted tubule plays a critical role in controlling the volume and composition of urine by adjusting the levels of sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes, as well as contributing to acid-base balance through the secretion of hydrogen ions. Once the filtrate has passed through this tubule, it then moves into the collecting duct, where additional adjustments can be made under the influence of hormones such as antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone, ultimately influencing the final output of urine.

Other parts of the nephron, such as the proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, and Bowman's capsule, serve different functions in the filtration and reabsorption processes and do not directly connect to the collecting duct. The proximal convoluted tubule primarily facilitates the reabsorption of nutrients and water, while the loop of Henle is involved in concentrating urine. Bowman's capsule is where filtration begins, collecting the filtrate from the blood.