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Questions and Answers
What protein complexes are associated with microtubules in the sperm tail?
What protein complexes are associated with microtubules in the sperm tail?
Which structure primarily generates ATP for sperm motility?
Which structure primarily generates ATP for sperm motility?
What is the approximate length of the tail of a spermatozoon?
What is the approximate length of the tail of a spermatozoon?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a mature human ovum?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a mature human ovum?
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What is the fate of the human ovum post-ovulation if it is not fertilized?
What is the fate of the human ovum post-ovulation if it is not fertilized?
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What specific structure within the head of the spermatozoon is responsible for containing enzymes that assist in fertilization?
What specific structure within the head of the spermatozoon is responsible for containing enzymes that assist in fertilization?
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How long is the middle piece of a mature spermatozoon?
How long is the middle piece of a mature spermatozoon?
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Which of the following statements accurately describes the genetic content of a mature spermatozoon?
Which of the following statements accurately describes the genetic content of a mature spermatozoon?
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What is the primary function of the structures found in the neck of the spermatozoon?
What is the primary function of the structures found in the neck of the spermatozoon?
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Which feature distinguishes the head of a spermatozoon?
Which feature distinguishes the head of a spermatozoon?
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Study Notes
Spermatozoon (Male Gamete)
- Spermatozoon, also known as sperm or sperm cell, is the male gamete.
- A mature spermatozoon has a specific structure, including a head, neck, middle piece, and tail.
Spermatozoon Structure
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Head: Contains a densely-packed haploid nucleus and an acrosomal cap.
- The head is typically ovoid or piriform in shape.
- The acrosomal cap contains enzymes, such as acrosin and hyaluronidase.
- The acrosomal cap is about half the length of the head.
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Neck: A short constriction connecting the head and middle piece.
- The neck contains centrioles, which are essential for cell division.
- The length is approximately 0.3 µm.
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Middle Piece: Contains numerous mitochondria arranged in a spiral sheath.
- The mitochondria provide energy for the movement of the sperm.
- The middle piece is about 7 µm long.
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Tail: A long, slender tail that extends from the middle piece.
- The tail has a core of microtubules called the axoneme, surrounded by plasma membrane.
- The tail propels the sperm forward.
- The tail is around 40 µm long and 0.5 µm wide.
Ovum (Female Gamete)
- The ovum, or egg cell, is the female gamete.
- It's a large, rounded cell with a distinctive structure.
Ovum Characteristics
- Size: Large, approximately 200 µm in diameter.
- Shape: Rounded.
- Motility: Immotile.
- Viability: Viable for approximately 24 hours after ovulation.
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Yolk: Rich in nutritive yolk.
- The yolk is composed primarily of lecithin.
- The yolk content is isolecithal, which indicates a uniform distribution of yolk throughout the cytoplasm.
Ovum Structure
- Nucleus: Contains a haploid nucleus (23 chromosomes) and a nucleolus.
- Nucleolus: Also known as the germinal spot.
- Cytoplasm: Contains various organelles (as well as formative yolk) and nutritive yolk.
- Zona Pellucida: An external layer composed of glycoproteins.
- Corona Radiata: A layer of cells surrounding the zona pellucida, protecting the ovum.
- Cortical Granules: Located within the cytoplasm, contain enzymes that help prevent polyspermy.
Sperm and Egg Summary
- The mature spermatozoon has a specific structure that enables it to move and fertilize an ovum.
- The ovum is large and immobile, containing nutrients and reserves needed for early embryonic development.
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Description
This quiz explores the structure and functions of the spermatozoon, the male gamete. It covers aspects such as the head, neck, middle piece, and tail, detailing their roles and significance in reproduction. Test your knowledge on the intricate anatomy of sperm cells!
