Final - Male Duct System

Question 1

Epididymus: Structure

Answer 1

• Cup-shaped, highly coiled tube about 20 feet long

- Caps superior part of testis and then runs down its posterolateral side

Question 2

Epididymus: Function

Answer 2

• Temporary storage site for immature sperm
• Here, sperm gain ability to swim
• During ejaculation, the walls of epididymus contract to expel sperm into next part of duct system (Vas deferens)

Question 3

Ductus Deferens: Structure

Answer 3

• Tube running from epididymus to ejaculatory duct, which merges with urethra
• Enclosed in blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue (spermatic cord)

Question 4

Ductus Deferens: Function

Answer 4

• Propel live sperm from their storage sites into the urethra
• During ejaculation, the thick layers of smooth muscle in its walls create peristaltic waves that rapidly squeeze the sperm forward

Question 5

Urethra: Structure

Answer 5

• Expands from base of urinary bladder to tip of penis

- Three regions: prostatic urethra, membranous urethra, and spongy (penile) urethra

Question 6

Urethra: Function

Answer 6

• Carries both urine and sperm (never passing at same time)

- When ejaculation occurs, bladder sphincter constricts (shutting out urine, and blocking sperm from entering bladder)

Question 7

Prostatic Urethra

Answer 7

• First part

- Surrounded by prostate gland

Question 8

Membranous Urethra

Answer 8

• Second part

- Spanning the distance from the prostatic urethra to the penis

Question 9

Spongy (penile) Urethra

Answer 9

• Third part

- Running within the length of the penis