What is the process of eliminating waste from the body called?

The process of eliminating waste from the body is known as excretion. This term specifically refers to the biological process by which the body removes waste substances generated during metabolism, as well as any excess substances that are no longer needed. Excretion primarily involves the kidneys filtering blood to produce urine, but it also includes the elimination of solid waste through the intestines, which is more commonly associated with defecation.

In the context of the multiple-choice options, while defecation describes the specific act of expelling solid waste from the digestive tract, excretion encompasses a broader spectrum of waste elimination processes, including both liquid and solid waste. Understanding this distinction is important, as it provides a clearer picture of how the body manages and purges various waste products.