Intro

Question 1

Describe in detail the general pathway of sperm production, location, and the way it exits the body.

Answer 1

Testes is the location of sperm production and testosterone production. In each testicle there is a coiled seminiferous tubules which are the distinct area of sperm production. Once sperm is produced, it is sent to the epididymis where it is fully matured and stored there. Through the process of ejaculation, sperm will pass through the vas deferens (a duct that transports the sperm to the urethra). Before entering the urethra, sperm will mix with fluids and nutrients produced in the seminal vesicles (which nourishes the sperm and contributes to what we call semen). The junction between the vas deferens and the ducts from the seminal vesicles are called the ejaculation ducts (which empty the sperm and semen into the prostatic urethra). Now, the sperm will receive sugars and enzymes from the prostate gland (which contributes to the volume of semen). After exiting the prostate, sperm will further mix with fluid from the bulbourathral glands (located at the base of the penis). At the time of ejaculation, semen and sperm will pass through the penil urethra in the penis to exit the body.

Question 2

What are some similarities between the male and female reproductive system?

Answer 2

• There are 2 testes and 2 ovaries
  -one penis and one uterus
  -a duct system in charge of transporting the gametes

*these similarities exist because both females and males share the same embryonic origin. This changes in the 7th week of development, where differention occurs.

Question 3

What is the meaning of sex determination?

Answer 3

The process at week 7 of embryonic development where they get female or male characteristics, and the embryo becomes a male or female because of it.

Question 4

Is there only one sperm or many that are produced with each ejaculation?

Answer 4

There are millions of sperm are ejected and travel out of the body at the time of ejaculation.

Question 5

Will all of the sperm ejaculated fertilize the same egg?

Answer 5

No, only one sperm out of one ejaculation will be successful at fertilizing the egg.

Question 6

What is the name of a fertilized egg?

Answer 6

A zygote.