Chapter 9 Flashcards
reproduction in humans (34 cards)
Sexual reproduction
reproduction involving fusion of male and female gametes
Asexual reproduction
reproduction where new organisms separate from single parent
Gametes
male and female sex cells, formed by meiosis
Sperm
male gamete of an animal
Ovum
female gamete of an animal
Fertilisation
fusion of male and female gametes to form a zygote
Zygote
single cell, the result of fertilisation
Gene
part of chromosome, length of DNA, controls characteristic of an organism by coding for the production of specific proteins
Mitosis
type of cell division, produces diploid cells for growth and repair of tissues
Meiosis
type of cell division, produces haploid cells (gametes)
Diploid
number of chromosomes found in body cells
Flagellum
in animal cells: tail-like structure, produces movement
Ejaculate
release of semen during sexual intercourse
Differentiation
process where cells become specialised to do particular functions
Oviduct
tube leading from ovary to uterus (aka fallopian tube)
Ovulation
release of ovum from a follicle in the ovary
Embryo
multicellular structure formed by division of zygote
Placenta
organ in mammals, keeps blood vessels of embryo close to mother’s ones to allow exchange of substances between mother’s and embryo’s blood.
Progesterone
female sex hormone, made by the corpus luteum and placenta. Helps thicken and maintain uterus lining. A drop in its levels stimulates menstruation.
Amnion
membrane enclosing embryo during pregnancy
Amniotic fluid
fluid secreted by amnion, protects embryo, acts as shock absorber
Foetus
unborn offspring of a mammal
Cervix
neck of uterus
Puberty
time when developmental changes take place in humans, leads to sexual maturity