Asexual and Sexual Reproduction

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Questions and Answers

Which characteristic distinguishes asexual reproduction from sexual reproduction?

  • Asexual reproduction involves two parents.
  • Asexual reproduction creates genetic diversity.
  • Asexual reproduction requires more energy.
  • Asexual reproduction results in genetically identical offspring. (correct)

Sexual reproduction leads to offspring that are genetically identical to either parent.

False (B)

What is the primary disadvantage of asexual reproduction in terms of species survival?

lack of genetic diversity

The fusion of gametes in sexual reproduction results in a ______.

<p>zygote</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each component of the male reproductive system with its function:

<p>Testicles = Produce sperm and male sex hormones Vas deferens = Stores and transports sperm Seminal vesicles = Provide nutrients for sperm Prostate = Protects sperm from vaginal acidity</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the seminiferous tubules within the testicles?

<p>Producing sperm cells (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The epididymis serves as the primary site for sperm production within the male reproductive system.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the acrosome in a sperm cell?

<p>fertilization</p> Signup and view all the answers

The fluid secreted by the seminal vesicles, which provides energy for sperm, is rich in ______.

<p>glucose</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each gland to its secretions function:

<p>Seminal vesicles = Nutrient-rich fluid for sperm Prostate = Protective fluid against vaginal acidity Cowper's glands = Lubricant to facilitate intercourse</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which process involves the reduction of chromosome number from 46 to 23 in sperm cells?

<p>Meiosis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Spermatogenesis results in one mature sperm cell from each spermatogonium.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name the structure that provides energy for sperm movement.

<p>mitochondria</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______ is a tail-like structure that aids sperm motility.

<p>flagellum</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each part of the sperm cell with its function:

<p>Head = Contains genetic material and acrosome Neck = Supplies energy for movement Tail = Enables sperm motility</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is NOT part of the female reproductive system?

<p>Epididymis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Fertilization typically occurs in the uterus.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the ciliated cells in the fallopian tubes?

<p>aid egg movement</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______ is the external genital organ of the female.

<p>vulva</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each part of the female reproductive system with its function:

<p>Ovaries = Produce eggs Fallopian tubes = Site of fertilization Uterus = Supports fetal development Vagina = Connects the uterus to the outside</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which process describes the creation of an egg (ovum) in the ovaries?

<p>Oogenesis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Oogenesis, unlike spermatogenesis, is a continuous process that occurs throughout a woman's life.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many functional eggs are typically produced from each cell that undergoes meiosis during oogenesis?

<p>one</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ovarian cycle prepares the eggs while the ______ cycle prepares the uterus for pregnancy.

<p>uterine</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each term with its description:

<p>Oogenesis = Egg creation Ovarian cycle = Maturation and release of eggs Uterine cycle = Preparation of the uterine lining</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics describes an ovum?

<p>Large and immobile (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ovum lacks reserve substances necessary for early development.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the corona radiata that surrounds the ovum?

<p>protection</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______ and corona radiata are layers covering the ovum.

<p>pellucida</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each characteristic with either sperm or ovum:

<p>Small size = Sperm Motility = Sperm Large size = Ovum Immobility = Ovum</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of sexual reproduction compared to asexual reproduction?

<p>Genetic diversity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sexuality and reproduction are synonymous terms in biology.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term describes organisms, including humans, that develop inside the mother's body?

<p>viviparous</p> Signup and view all the answers

Male sex hormones, such as testosterone, are collectively known as ______.

<p>androgens</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following components with their roles in the male reproductive system:

<p>Scrotum = Protects the testicles Penis = Copulatory organ for sperm deposition Urethra = Transports both urine and semen</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of Cowper's glands in the male reproductive system?

<p>Secrete lubricant for sexual intercourse (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The primary function of the uterus is to produce eggs.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the collective term for the labia majora and minora, including the clitoris?

<p>vulva</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______ cycle refers to the changes that occur in the uterus to prepare for implantation.

<p>uterine</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each term with its appropriate definition or location:

<p>Spermatogonia = Cells that produce sperm Acrosome = Structure that aids in egg fertilization Viviparous = Development inside the mother’s body</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the lack of genetic diversity in asexually reproducing species affect their ability to survive in changing environments?

<p>With no genetic diversity, all individuals are equally susceptible to the same environmental changes, making it difficult for the species to adapt and survive.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the acrosome in a sperm cell, and why is it essential for fertilization?

<p>The acrosome contains enzymes. These enzymes are needed for the sperm to penetrate the egg's outer layers, enabling fertilization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the structure of the seminiferous tubules in the testicles supports the process of spermatogenesis.

<p>The walls of the seminiferous tubules contain spermatogonia. These spermatogonia develop into sperm cells through spermatogenesis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the secretions from the seminal vesicles contribute to the survival and function of sperm cells?

<p>The seminal vesicles produce a fluid rich in glucose, which provides energy for the sperm cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific structural adaptation in the Fallopian tubes facilitates the movement of the egg towards the uterus?

<p>The Fallopian tubes contain ciliated cells, which create a current to move the egg.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the roles of the prostate gland and the Cowper's glands in facilitating successful fertilization.

<p>The prostate gland produces prostatic fluid to protect sperm from vaginal acidity, while Cowper's glands secrete lubricant to ease sexual intercourse.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the key differences between spermatogenesis and oogenesis in terms of timing and products?

<p>Spermatogenesis is continuous and produces four sperm cells from each cell undergoing meiosis, while oogenesis is discontinuous, starts at puberty, ends at menopause, and typically produces only one egg monthly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the structure of the penis, including the corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiosum, enables it to perform its reproductive function.

<p>The corpora cavernosa fill with blood to cause an erection, allowing the penis to enter the vagina, and the corpus spongiosum prevents the urethra from collapsing during this process.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the scrotum's location outside the body for sperm production?

<p>The scrotum's external location maintains a lower temperature, which is optimal for sperm production.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the relationship between the ovarian cycle and the uterine cycle, and their combined purpose in the menstrual cycle.

<p>The ovarian cycle controls egg release, while the uterine cycle prepares the uterine lining for implantation. Together, they coordinate to prepare the body for potential pregnancy each month.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the epididymis contribute to the maturation and storage of sperm?

<p>The epididymis is where sperm complete their maturation process, gaining motility and the ability to fertilize an egg. It also serves as a storage site for sperm until ejaculation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary differences between asexual and sexual reproduction, and what are the evolutionary implications of these differences?

<p>Asexual reproduction involves one parent and produces genetically identical offspring, while sexual reproduction involves two parents and creates genetically diverse offspring. Sexual reproduction provides greater adaptability to changing environments, promoting long-term survival.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the role of meiosis in both spermatogenesis and oogenesis, and why it is essential for sexual reproduction.

<p>Meiosis reduces the chromosome number in gametes to half (23 in humans). It ensures that when sperm and egg fuse during fertilization, the resulting zygote has the correct number of chromosomes (46 in humans).</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of the egg, including the zona pellucida and corona radiata, support the process of fertilization?

<p>The zona pellucida and corona radiata protect the egg and interact with sperm during fertilization. The acrosome on the sperm head releases enzymes to penetrate these layers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the function of the vas deferens in the male reproductive system, and explain what happens during a vasectomy.

<p>The vas deferens transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra. During a vasectomy, the vas deferens are cut or blocked to prevent sperm from passing through, resulting in sterility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do hormones, such as androgens, regulate the development and function of the male reproductive system?

<p>Androgens, like testosterone, promote the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, stimulate spermatogenesis, and maintain the function of male reproductive organs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What adaptations does sperm have that allow them to reach and fertilize an egg?

<p>Sperm are small and mobile, with a flagellum that allows them to swim through the female reproductive tract, and an acrosome containing enzymes that help them penetrate the egg.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the advantages of sexual reproduction compared to asexual reproduction?

<p>Sexual reproduction creates genetic diversity, which enhances a species' ability to adapt to changing environments and resist diseases, unlike asexual reproduction, which produces genetically identical offspring.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the male and female reproductive systems ensure that gametes (sperm and egg) meet for fertilization to occur?

<p>The male reproductive system deposits sperm into the female reproductive tract, where sperm travel to the Fallopian tubes; the female reproductive system releases an egg into the Fallopian tubes, where fertilization typically occurs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the process of spermatogenesis, including the roles of spermatogonia, meiosis, and maturation.

<p>Spermatogonia grow and increase in number. Then meiosis occurs which halves the number of chromosomes. Then the cells undergo maturation to transform into spermatozoa.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is oogenesis different from spermatogenesis in terms of the number of gametes produced and the timing of the process?

<p>Oogenesis produces one egg from each cell undergoing meiosis and occurs discontinuously from puberty to menopause, while spermatogenesis produces four sperm from each cell and occurs continuously throughout a male's adult life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the role of the uterus in the female reproductive system, and how its structure supports pregnancy.

<p>The uterus provides a space for a fertilised egg to implant and develop throughout pregnancy. Its muscular walls and nutrient-rich lining support the growing fetus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the anatomical differences between the male and female gonads, and how these differences relate to their functions.

<p>Male gonads (testes) produce sperm continuously and secrete testosterone, while female gonads (ovaries) produce eggs periodically and secrete estrogen and progesterone. These structural and functional differences ensure distinct roles in reproduction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the hormones produced during the ovarian cycle affect the uterine cycle, preparing the uterus for potential implantation?

<p>Estrogen thickens the uterine lining in the proliferative phase, and progesterone maintains the thickened lining in the secretory phase, preparing the uterus for implantation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the flagellum in a sperm cell?

<p>The flagellum is a tail-like structure that allows the sperm to move or swim through the female reproductive tract to reach and fertilize the egg.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the prostate fluid protect sperm against the acidity of the vagina?

<p>The prostate fluid contains substances that neutralize the acidic environment of the vagina, increasing the survival rate of sperm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the significance of genetic diversity resulting from sexual reproduction for the long-term survival of a species.

<p>Genetic diversity allows a species to adapt to new diseases or changing environmental conditions, preventing extinction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the cells lining the Fallopian tubes facilitate the movement of the egg and/or zygote towards the uterus?

<p>The cells lining the Fallopian tubes have cilia, small hair-like structures, that beat in a coordinated fashion to propel the egg or zygote towards the uterus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does sexual reproduction contribute to the adaptability of a species in a changing environment?

<p>Sexual reproduction generates genetic variation. The variation increases the likelihood that some members of the population will possess traits that allow them to survive and reproduce successfully in altered conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the role of the seminal vesicles in the male reproductive system, and explain why their secretions are important for sperm function.

<p>The seminal vesicles secrete a fluid rich in glucose, which provides sperm with the energy they need. This fluid also helps to protect sperm and enhance their motility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Reproduction

Ensures the creation of new living beings through either asexual or sexual methods.

Asexual Reproduction

Reproduction involving one parent, without gametes, resulting in offspring genetically identical to the parent.

Sexual Reproduction

Reproduction involving two parents and the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg), creating genetically unique offspring.

Advantages of Asexual Reproduction

Faster reproduction that doesn’t need a mate and requires less energy.

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Disadvantages of Asexual Reproduction

Lack of genetic diversity; species struggle to adapt to diseases or environmental changes.

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Advantages of Sexual Reproduction

Creates genetic diversity, helps species adapt, and reduces the risk of harmful mutations.

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Disadvantages of Sexual Reproduction

Slower process and uses more energy.

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Sexuality

Feelings of attraction to others, focused on pleasure, not necessarily reproduction.

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Sex

Biological trait based on genes, hormones, and anatomy; distinguishes males and females.

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Sperm

Male gametes produced in the testicles.

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Eggs (ova)

Female gametes produced in the ovaries.

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Zygote

A fertilized egg formed when sperm fertilizes an egg.

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Viviparous

Development of offspring inside the mother’s body.

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Gonads

Organs that produce gametes; testicles in males and ovaries in females.

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Testicles

Male gonads made up of seminiferous tubules that produce sperm plus connective tissue that produces androgens.

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Epididymis

Duct formed by seminiferous tubules where spermatozoa finish maturation.

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Vas Deferens

Duct that stores sperm produced in the testicles that ascends into the abdomen.

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Urethra (Male)

Duct shared by the urinary and reproductive systems in males.

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Accessory Glands (Male)

Glands in the male reproductive system that mix secretions with sperm to form semen or aid sperm movement.

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Seminal Vesicles

Glands that generate spermatic fluid containing glucose (food for sperm).

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Prostate Gland

Gland located under the urinary bladder that makes prostatic fluid to protect sperm against vaginal acidity.

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Cowper's Glands

Glands that secrete lubricant to facilitate sexual intercourse.

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Penis

Male copulatory organ made of corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiosum.

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Spermatogenesis

Process where sperm cells are made in the seminiferous tubules of the testicles.

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Spermatogonia Growth

Growth and increase in the number of spermatogonia (sperm cells).

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Stage of Meiosis (Spermatogenesis)

Cell division process where a cell with 46 chromosomes produces 4 cells with 23 chromosomes each.

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Spermatogenesis Maturation

Phase in spermatogenesis where cells transform into spermatozoa, lengthening, reducing volume, and forming a flagellum.

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Sperm Head

Part of sperm containing the nucleus and an acrosome with substances to help in egg fertilization.

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Sperm Tail

Part of sperm that allows motion.

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Sperm Neck

Part of sperm between the head and tail, containing mitochondria for energy.

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Ovaries

Female gonads in the female reproductive system.

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Fallopian Tubes

Ducts connecting the ovaries to the uterus, where fertilization occurs.

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Uterus

Cone-shaped cavity in the uterine wall where pregnancy develops.

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Vagina

Elastic tube with glands that secrete lubricants to help with sexual intercourse.

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Vulva

External genital organ of the woman including the labia and clitoris.

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Oogenesis

Process where the egg (ovum) is created in the ovaries.

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Ovarian Cycle

A woman's eggs search for sperm, related to the uterine cycle.

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Menstrual Cycle

Periodic processes in the ovaries and uterus coordinated as the ovarian and uterine cycles.

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Ovum (Egg)

Female gamete with 23 chromosomes, round, immobile, containing reserve substances, covered by the pellucida and corona radiata.

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Penis Anatomy

Male copulatory organ used for reproduction, made of corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiosum.

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Scrotum

Sac of skin located outside the body, behind the penis, that contains the testicles.

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Uterine cycle function

The lining of the uterus prepares for implantation.

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Study Notes

  • Living beings have three vital functions: nutrition, reproduction, and interaction.

Reproduction

  • Reproduction ensures the creation of new living beings.
  • There are two types of reproduction: asexual and sexual.

Asexual Reproduction

  • Involves one parent (or one progenitor).
  • Does not require gametes or sexual cells.
  • Offspring is genetically identical to the parent.

Advantages of Asexual Reproduction

  • Faster than sexual reproduction.
  • Does not need a mate.
  • Requires less energy.

Disadvantages of Asexual Reproduction

  • No genetic diversity.
  • Species struggle to adapt to diseases or changes in the environment.

Sexual Reproduction

  • Involves two parents (or two progenitors), male and female.
  • Requires the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg).
  • Creates a genetically unique offspring.

Advantages of Sexual Reproduction

  • Creates genetic diversity.
  • This helps species adapt and survive.
  • Reduces the risk of passing harmful mutations.

Disadvantages of Sexual Reproduction

  • Slow process.
  • Uses more energy.

Human Reproduction

  • Involves sexual reproduction.
  • Sexuality is related to people we are attracted to sexually, it does not consider reproduction
  • Sex is a biological trait based on genes, hormones, and anatomy which is different to reproduction.
  • Males produce sperm (male gametes).
  • Females produce eggs (female gametes).
  • Sperm fertilizes an egg, forming a zygote.
  • Human beings are viviparous, meaning babies develop inside the mother’s body.

Male Reproductive System

  • Divided into gonads, reproductive pathways, glands, and the penis.

Gonads (Testicles)

  • Made up of seminiferous tubules which are rolled up.
  • Spermatogonia (cells) in the walls of the seminiferous tubules produce sperm.
  • Connective tissue between the tubules produces androgens (male sex hormones).
  • Located outside the body, behind the penis in the scrotum.

Reproductive Pathways

  • Epididymis: Duct formed by the seminiferous tubules where spermatozoa finish maturation.
  • Vas Deferens: Continuation of the epididymis that ascends into the abdomen and stores sperm (up to 42 days).
  • Urethra: Duct belonging to both the urinary and reproductive systems, housed inside the penis.

Glands

  • Accessory glands mix secretions with spermatozoa to form semen or to aid its movement.
  • Seminal Vesicles: Generate spermatic fluid containing glucose (food for spermatozoa).
  • Prostate: Located under the urinary bladder, produces prostatic fluid to protect sperm against vaginal acidity.
  • Cowper's Glands: Secrete lubricant to facilitate sexual intercourse.

Penis

  • Male copulatory organ made up of two spongy tissues (corpora cavernosa) above the urethra.
  • Surrounded by corpus spongiosum, which widens to form the glans covered by the foreskin.
  • During sex, blood rushes into the corpora cavernosa and is trapped by high pressure.
  • This makes the penis increase in size and become hard (an erection), which helps it enter the vagina to deposit sperm.

Male Gametogenesis: Spermatogenesis

  • Process where sperm cells are made in the testicles (seminiferous tubules).

Stages of Spermatogenesis:

  • Spermatogonia grow and increase in number.
  • Meiosis: A cell with 46 chromosomes produces 4 cells with 23 chromosomes each.
  • Maturation: Four cells transform into spermatozoa by:
    • Lengthening (growing).
    • Reducing cell volume and losing cytoplasm.
    • Forming a flagellum (tail) for movement.

Male Gamete: Sperm

Parts of Sperm:

  • Head: Contains the nucleus with 23 chromosomes and acrosome (helps with egg fertilization).
  • Tail: Allows motion.
  • Neck: Between the head and tail, contains mitochondria (provides energy for movement) and a centriole (helps with movement).

Female Reproductive System

  • Divided into gonads and reproductive pathways.

Gonads (Ovaries)

  • Each ovary has an internal and external part.

Reproductive Pathways

  • Fallopian Tubes: Connect the ovaries to the uterus and contain ciliated cells that help eggs travel.
    • Secrete fluid that eases movement and acts as food for the zygote.
    • Fertilization occurs here.
  • Uterus/Matrix: A cone-shaped cavity in the uterine wall that connects to the fallopian tubes.
    • Wall has a layer of muscle and is lined with a layer of mucus.
    • Pregnancy develops in the uterus.
  • Vagina: An elastic tube that has glands that secrete lubricants to help with sexual intercourse.
    • Has a small membrane called the hymen at the entrance.
  • Vulva: External genital organ consisting of labia majora and minora, including the clitoris (made up of cavernous tissue).
    • Labia contain Bartolini glands (produce lubricant).

Female Gametogenesis: Oogenesis

  • Oogenesis is the process in which the egg (or ovum) is created in the ovaries.

Differences Between Oogenesis and Spermatogenesis:

  • Oogenesis is not produced all the time/ it happens discontinuously
  • Begins at puberty and ends at menopause (when the eggs run out).
  • Only one egg is produced from each cell where meiosis occurs.
  • One egg is typically produced each month.
  • The ovarian cycle is how a woman's eggs search for sperm.
  • The ovarian cycle is related to the uterine cycle because the uterus is going to make the "bed" for the new living being.
  • The menstrual cycle is the result of the coordination of two processes that occur periodically in the ovaries and in the uterus: the ovarian cycle and the uterine cycle.

Female Gamete: The Ovum

  • Gametes have 23 chromosomes.
  • Round and measures 0.1 mm in diameter.
  • Immobile.
  • Has reserve substances (yolk).
  • Covered by the pellucida and corona radiata.

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