The cells of the distal convoluted tubule in contact with the afferent arteriole are:
a. the macula densa
b. the mesangial
c. the podocytes
d. the juxtaglomerular cells
e. the juxtamedullary cells

d. the juxtaglomerular cells

Explanation:

The cells of the distal convoluted tubule in contact with the afferent arteriole are the juxtaglomerular cells.

between the two muscle layers is the myenteric or auerbach's plexus, which controls peristalsis. in the colon, the muscularis externa is much thicker because the feces are large and heavy, requiring more force to push along. the stomach has a third layer of muscularis externa: the inner oblique layer.