Cortical nephrons can be distinguished from juxtamedullary nephrons by.

Short vs. long loops

Explanation:

The main difference between cortical nephron and juxtamedullary nephron is that cortical nephron contains a short loop of Henle which only extends into the outer region of the renal medulla whereas juxtamedullary nephron contains a longer loop of Henle which extends deeper into the inner medulla.