Human Reproduction

Question 1

What is reproduction?

Answer 1

This is the biological process by which new individual organism (offspring) is made

Question 2

Two reasons why is reproduction important?

Answer 2

1) It allows for the continuation of the species

2) it ensures the survival of the species

Question 3

What are the two types of reproduction? Explain them

Answer 3

1)Asexual Reproduction - this is when one individual produce offspring without fertilization.
These offspring are genetically identical to each other and their parents. Clones are produced.

2) Sexual Reproduction - this involves two parents producing special reproductive cells or gametes(ova and spermatozoa)
Fusion of gametes produces offspring that are different from each other and from both parents.

Question 4

What are 4 advantages and 3 disadvantages of Asexual reproduction?

Answer 4

Advantages

1) Less time and energy wasted to seek a mate

2) Large numbers of offsprings produced

3) Offsprings can be continuously produced and therefore quickly

4) If the parent is of ‘superior’ quality, the offspring will also be of superior quality

Disadvantages

1) If the environment is changing, the offspring will find it difficult to survive

2) If the parent is of ‘poor’ quality, the offspring will also be of poor quality

3) Over crowding and competition as the offspring colonize the same areas as the parent

Question 5

What are 4 advantages and 4 disadvantages of Sexual Reproduction?

Answer 5

Advantages

1) Genetic variability of the species is increased

2) Species are likely to be able to adapt to a changing environment

3) Species can be able to colonize new areas successfully

4) If both parents are of ‘poor’ quality, the offspring may be of better quality

Disadvantages

1) More time and energy wasted to find a mate

2) Offsprings are not produced continuously and therefore slow

3) Few offsprings may be produced ( in humans)

4) Even if the parents are of good quality, the offspring can be off poor quality