What is the Difference Between Urea and Urine?

Urea and urine are different substances with distinct characteristics and functions. Here are the main differences between them:

• Origin: Urea is a nitrogen-containing waste substance produced in the liver from ammonia, which is a byproduct of protein breakdown. Urine, on the other hand, is a liquid generated in the kidneys as a result of blood filtration.
• Composition: Urea is a colorless crystalline substance. Urine is a watery, yellowish fluid held in the bladder and expelled through the urethra, consisting of water, urea, inorganic salts, creatinine, ammonia, and pigmented products.
• Function: Urea is the major nitrogenous waste removed by urine. Urine is a liquid that humans and other animals excrete, serving as a means of eliminating waste products from the body.
• Form: Urea exists in a solid form. Urine is a liquid.
• Odor: Urea is odorless. Urine has an unpleasant smell due to the presence of various waste products and chemicals.

In summary, urea is a waste product formed in the liver as a result of protein breakdown, while urine is a liquid generated in the kidneys that serves as a means of excreting waste products, including urea, from the body.

Comparative Table: Urea vs Urine

Here is a table highlighting the differences between urea and urine:

Urine is a liquid by-product of the body secreted by the kidneys, while urea is a solid waste product found in urine. Urea is a processed form of ammonia that is non-toxic to mammals, unlike ammonia, which can be highly toxic.