Reproductive System Introduction Flashcards
Human Sexual Reproduction involves two events:
1.) Production of gamates
2.) Fertilization
What are Gamates, what are they?
Egg and sperm cells, they are haploid, which means theyy have 23 chromosomes, half the number found in body cells.
Define Fertilization
Unification of egg and sperm to produce a zygote (fertilized egg - diploid)
What is the Scrotum, why is it important?
Sac that contains testes, important because sperm doesn’t develop at body temperature.
What are Testes?
The male gonads that produce sperm and testosterone
What are the Vas Deferns?
Tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra.
What is the Urethra?
Channel for urine and semen
What is a vasectonomy, what does it do?
Surgical procedure that involves cutting the vas deferens. This prevents sperm produced in the testes to be in ejaculated seminal fluid. Results in infertility.
Seminal fluid/Semen is…
A fluid secreted by three glands along the vas deferens and the urethra.
What are the Three glands for semen?
1.) Seminal vesicle
2.) Prostate Gland
3.) Cowpers gland (Bulbourethral)
What is the Seminal Vesicle and its functions?
Fluid that contain fructose and prostaglandins —> Fructose provides sperm cells with a source of energy. The Prostaglandins act as chemical messengers in the female system, triggering the rhythmic contraction of smooth muscle along the reproductive tract.
What is the Prostate gland and its functions?
Secretes an alkaline substance that protects sperm cells against the acidic environment in the vagina.
What is Cowpers gland and its function?
Secretes alkaline mucous that counteracts possible acidity left in the uretha of the penis. Keeps the penis clean.
