Glossary Flashcards
Terms and Definitions
Sexual Reproduction
Making new organisms by the combination of genetic information of two living things of different genders
Fusion
When two nuclei combine, creating a new nucleus.
Gametes
Reproductive cells of animals or plants
Fertilization
The union of two gametes to become a zygote, which develops into a new organism
Conception
When an egg is fertilized by sperm. The beginning of pregnancy.
Ejaculation
The release of sperm cells from the male reproductive system
Semen
Fluid emitted from the male reproductive tract containing sperm cells
Zygote
A fertilised egg cell that results from the union of a female gamete and a male gamete
Puberty
The process of physical maturation when an adolescent reaches sexual maturity and is capable of reproduction.
Hormones:
Chemical substances that assist and control cells and organs in their functions
FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone)
A hormone created by the pituitary gland that plays a role in sexual development + reproduction
LH (luteinizing hormone)
A glycoprotein hormone that is made with FSH and plays a part in women’s, men’s and children’s sexual development
Menstruation
Monthly shedding of blood and tissue from the lining of the uterus when pregnancy does not occur
Gonads
Part of the reproductive system that produces and releases eggs (women) or sperm (men)
Estrogen
The steroid hormone associated with female reproductive organs and is responsible for developing female sexual characteristics.
Progesterone
The hormone that supports pregnancy.
Estrogen and Progesterone
Stimulates eggs in the ovaries to develop, breast tissue growth, widening of hips, prompt beginning of menstrual cycle
Prostate gland
Organ that produces the majority of seminal fluid that protects and nourishes sperm on the way to the egg.