Reproduction (Mammals)

Question 1

Reproduction Definition

Answer 1

Reproduction is the process by which the members of a species produce offspring. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of two gametes during fertilisation.

Question 2

Gamete production in Mammals

Answer 2

The testes are the site of sperm production and the ovaries are the site of egg production.

Question 3

Gamete (Male)

Answer 3

Sperm Cell - Sperm consist of a head region (mainly a nucleus containing genetic material) and a tail that enables it to move.

Question 4

Gamete (Female)

Answer 4

Egg Cell - An egg is larger than a sperm because in addition to its nucleus, it contains a store of food in its cytoplasm

Question 5

Events leading to fertilisation pt 1

Answer 5

The release of an egg from a mammalian ovary is called ovulation. Eggs are released at regular intervals into the oviducts. The inner linings of the oviducts have hair –like cilia that beat and gently move the egg along towards the uterus. Following copulation (sexual intercourse in humans) and ejaculation (release of sperm by the male), sperm swim up the uterus and into the oviducts. It is here in an oviduct that fertilisation normally takes place.

Question 6

Fertilisation in mammals

Answer 6

Fertilisation involves the sperm reaching the egg and the sperm’s haploid nucleus entering the egg and fusing with the egg’s haploid nucleus to form a single diploid cell called a zygote. This is the first cell of the new individual and contains genetic information from both parents.

Question 7

Fertilisation- random

Answer 7

Fertilisation is a random process involving an element of chance.