Structure of a Sperm Flashcards
1
Q
What are the 4 main parts of a sperm?
A
- head
- neck
- body
- tail
2
Q
What does the head of a sperm contain?
A
- acrosome
- nucleus
3
Q
What is the purpose of the nucleus in the head of the sperm?
A
- contains haploid set of chromosomes
- which contains genetic material of the male
4
Q
What is the purpose of the acrosome in the head of the sperm?
A
- contains hydrolytic enzymes
- to digest outer layers surrounding egg cell
- allow sperm to penetrate
5
Q
What is found in the body of the sperm?
A
- mitochondria
6
Q
What is the purpose of the mitochondria in the body of a sperm?
A
- provides energy for movements of tail
7
Q
What is found in the tail of a sperm?
A
- contractile fibres
8
Q
What is the purpose of the contractile fibres found in the tail of a sperm?
A
- responsible for whip-like movements of tail
9
Q
What is the typical length of a sperm?
A
- 0,05mm
10
Q
How long can sperm survive in the female reproductive tract once ejaculated?
A
- about 48 hours
11
Q
How is it possible for the sperm to survive in the female reproductive tract?
A
- the sperm obtains nourishment from seminal fluid and female secretions
