Reproduction Flashcards
Describe homologous structures in the male and female reproductive systems
Homologous structures are similar structural components derived from the same embryonic tissues, with each having corresponding structures
List the female homologous structures corresponding to the penis and scrotum
clitoris and labial folds
Identify the female homologous structure for spermatozoa
oocytes (egg shells)
What are the female homologous structures for seminal vesicles, prostate, and bulbourethral glands?
paraurethral glands and greater vestibular glands
State the female homologous structure for testes
ovaries
List the female homologous structures for epididymis, ductus deferens, and urethra
uterine tube
Define the general functions of the reproductive system
forming gametes, uniting gametes through sexual intercourse, combining genetic material, and supporting development and birth offspring
State the product of mitosis
2 identical copies of daughter cells
Explain the primary function of meiosis
To create genetic diversity and produce haploid gametes with half the number of chromosomes as the original cell
Define gamete and list the male and female gametes
Gametes are specialized cells carrying 23 chromosomes; male gametes are sperm and female gametes are oocytes
Explain why gametes have half the number of chromosomes compared to other body cells
Gametes have half the number of chromosomes to ensure that when a sperm and oocyte unite, a new cell with unique genetics is formed
State the function of the testes
The testes produce sperm and hormones that support male reproductive physiology
Describe the function of the dartos muscle
The dartos muscle contracts to tighten the scrotum, reducing heat loss when exposed to cold temperatures
Explain the role of the cremaster muscle
The cremaster muscle contracts in cold temperatures to elevate the testes, moving them closer to the body to retain heat
What is the function of the seminiferous tubule?
The seminiferous tubule is responsible for sperm development
Describe the function of the epididymis
The epididymis is involved in the maturation and storage of sperm
What is the role of the prostate gland?
The prostate gland transports seminal fluid
What does the seminal vesicle produce?
the seminal vesicle produces seminal fluid
Clarify the difference between the words prostrate and prostate
prostate refers to the gland in the male reproductive system
prostrate means to make someone helpless
State the function of the bulbourethral gland
The bulbourethral gland secretes a lubricating mucus that cleans and lubricates the urethra prior to and during ejaculation
Describe the function of the ductus deferens (vas deferens)
The ductus deferens transports sperm from the epididymis through the spermatic cord to the ejaculatory duct
What is the function of the penis?
The penis is the male organ of sexual intercourse, flaccid for non-sexual actions and erect upon sexual arousal
Define fertilization
Fertilization is the combination of the sperm and oocyte
How many sperm are produced each day?
Approx. 100-300 million sperm are produced each day