Male and Female Reproductive Systems

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the male and female reproductive systems, including their roles and structures.

Male Reproductive System

Produces sperm cells in the testes and releases them inside a female.

Urethra

Tube that carries semen and urine out of the body.

Penis

Organ used for sexual intercourse; delivers sperm into the female reproductive system.

Testes

Produce sperm cells and the male hormone testosterone.

Epididymis

A long, coiled tube on each testis that stores and matures sperm.

Vas deferens

Transport sperm from the epididymis to the urethra.

Scrotum

Sac of skin that holds the testes and keeps them cooler than body temperature.

Seminal Vesicles

Produce a fluid rich in sugar (fructose) that gives sperm energy and forms part of semen.

Ejaculatory Duct

Transports semen from the vas deferens and seminal vesicles into the urethra during ejaculation.

Prostate Gland

Makes a fluid added to semen to help sperm live, move, and travel easily.

Sperm Cell

The male reproductive cell that carries genetic material and fertilizes the female egg.

Acrosome

Cap-like structure at the tip of the sperm head that helps penetrate the egg's outer layers.

Nucleus (of Sperm Cell)

Contains 23 pairs of chromosomes; fuses with the egg nucleus after fertilization.

Centriole

Contributes to spindle formation after fertilization.

Mitochondria (of Sperm Cell)

Generate energy for sperm motility, often called the 'engine room' of the sperm.

Ovary

Produces eggs (ova) and female hormones.

Fallopian Tube

Carries eggs from the ovaries to the uterus; fertilization usually occurs here.

Cervix

The lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.

Vagina

Muscular canal that receives the penis during intercourse and serves as the birth canal.

Vulva

Protects the internal reproductive organs and serves as the outer opening of the female reproductive system.

Corona Radiata

Outer layer of supporting cells around the egg that provides protection and nourishment.

Follicle Cells

Cells that surround and nourish an egg cell in the ovary, helping it mature and produce hormones.

Microvilli (of Egg Cell)

Tiny projections on the egg cell's surface that increase nutrient absorption and aid sperm attachment.

Cytoplasm (of Egg Cell)

Jelly-like substance that surrounds the nucleus and provides nutrients for development.

Nucleus (of Egg Cell)

Contains half of the genetic material from the mother and determines the baby’s inherited traits.

Zona Pellucida

Thick protective layer around the egg that helps sperm attach and enter during fertilization.

First Polar Body

Small cell formed during egg cell division that holds extra DNA and does not become an egg.