Human Reproduction Flashcards
(36 cards)
What are the main components of the reproductive system?
Gamete producing structures, gamete transport tubes, hormone secreting structures.
Define gonad.
An organ that produces sex cells in animals.
What are primary sexual characteristics?
The sex organs.
What are secondary sexual characteristics?
Characteristics distinguishing males from females, excluding the sex organs themselves.
What is puberty?
The onset of sexual maturity.
At what age does puberty typically begin in females?
11/12 years.
Provide an example of a secondary sexual characteristic in males.
Breaking of the voice.
Provide an example of a secondary sexual characteristic in females.
Widening of the hips.
At what age does puberty typically begin in males?
12/13 years.
List the parts of the male reproductive system.
- Testes
- Epididymis
- Sperm ducts (vas deferens)
- Urethra.
What is the primary function of the testes?
Produces sperm and testosterone.
Where does meiosis occur in the male reproductive system?
In tubules between testes.
What temperature is required for sperm production?
35°C.
What role do the cells between tubules in the testes play?
They make testosterone.
What is the function of the epididymis?
Matures and stores sperm for up to 6 weeks.
What is the purpose of the sperm ducts (vas deferens)?
Carry sperm to the urethra in the penis.
What do seminal vesicles, prostate, and Cowper’s gland produce?
Seminal fluid that feeds sperm.
What does seminal fluid contain that aids sperm?
Fructose.
What is the function of the urethra in the male reproductive system?
Allows passage of urine or sperm.
What is semen?
A mixture of sperm and seminal fluid.
What is an acrosome?
A cap-like structure that covers the sperm’s head, containing enzymes to aid in fertilization.
What contains enzymes that digest the egg membrane?
Acrosome
The acrosome is a cap-like structure on the head of the sperm that contains enzymes necessary for penetrating the egg membrane.
What structure allows the sperm to swim?
Flagellum
The flagellum is the tail of the sperm that propels it forward.
