Male Reproductive Ducts

Question 1

What are the ducts included in the male reproductive organs?

Answer 1

• epididymis
• sperm duct (vas deferens)
• urethra

Question 2

What is the epididymis?

Answer 2

• a highly convoluted tubule
• about 5 metres long

Question 3

How is the epididymis formed?

Answer 3

• the seminiferous tubules join to form the epididymis

Question 4

What are the functions of the epididymis?

Answer 4

Immature sperm enter the epididymis where they:
1. mature, to become motile and fertile
2. are stored for several months

Question 5

What happens if sperm cells stay in the epididymis for too long?

Answer 5

• they are broken down by the epithelial cells of the epididymis
• re-absorbed into the body

Question 6

What is the sperm duct (vas deferens)?

Answer 6

• a muscular continuation of the epididymis

Question 7

Where does the sperm duct (vas deferens) lead?

Answer 7

• it leaves the scrotum
• passes through the prostate gland
• then enters the urethra

Question 8

What is the function of the sperm duct (vas deferens)?

Answer 8

• the sperm duct pushes mature sperm forward through ejaculation

Question 9

What is ejaculation?

Answer 9

• when the mature sperm are pushed forward by strong peristaltic waves
• from the epididymis into the urethra

Question 10

What is a peristaltic wave?

Answer 10

• a strong contraction of smooth muscle in the walls of ducts

Question 11

What is the urethra?

Answer 11

• the duct at the end of the uro-genital system leading to the exterior

Question 12

What is the function of the urethra?

Answer 12

• forms a common duct for the transportation of semen and urine