Midterm Reviewer

Axon

the part of the neuron that transmits impulses away from the cell body.

Dendrite

the branchlike structure of the neuron that extends from the cell body to receive an impulse.

Embryo

an organism in its early stages of development, especially before it has reached a distinctively recognizable form.

Endocrine Gland

an organ that produces chemical secretions released directly into the bloodstream.

Egg cell

also called ovum (plural: ova); the female gamete.

Fertilization

a process that occurs when the sperm and egg combine to produce an embryo.

Homeostasis

the ability or tendency of an organism to maintain internal equilibrium by regulating its processes.

Hormone

a chemical substance produced in the body that controls and regulates the activity of certain cells or organs

Impulse

an electro chemical gradient moving along a neuron.

Neuron

the basic unit of the nervous system, also called nerve cell, that transmits messages to and from the central nervous system.

Semen

the ejaculated fluid containing sperm cells and secretions from the seminal vesicle, prostate gland, and bulbourethral gland.

Sperm

shorter term for spermatozoon (plural: spermatozoa); the male gamete.

Stimulus

any factor in the environment that influences the behavior of an organism.

Synapse

the space between neurons where electro chemical signals pass.

Testes

Organs that produce sperm and the male hormone testosterone.

Scrotum

A pouch that holds and keeps the testes at the right temperature for sperm production.

Vas deferens

The tube that transports sperm from the testes to the urethra.

Penis

External organ that releases urine and semen (not at the same time).

Seminal vesicies

Glands that produce fluid to nourish sperm.

Ovary

Produces egg cells (ova) and hormones like estrogen.

Fallopian tube

Tube that transports the egg from the ovary to the uterus; where fertilization often occurs.

Uterus

Where a fertilized egg implants and develops during pregnancy.

Vagina

Passageway that connects the uterus to the outside; allows for menstrual flow, childbirth, and intercourse.

Cervix

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

Estrogen

Hormone that helps thicken the uterine lining to prepare for pregnancy.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Triggers ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary.

Ovulation

The release of a mature egg from the ovary.

Menstruation

The phase when the uterine lining sheds and exits the body if no pregnancy occurs.

Menstrual Cycle

Monthly cycle (about 28 days) involving the preparation for pregnancy.

STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease)

Infections spread through sexual contact.

Gonorrhea

A bacterial STD that can cause pain during urination and discharge; treatable with antibiotics.

Safe Sex

Practices like using condoms and getting regular STD checkups to prevent infection.

Pituitary Gland

Known as the “master gland”; controls growth and other hormone glands.

Insulin

Hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Adrenaline

A hormone released during stress that increases energy and alertness.

Nervous System

Controls the brain, spinal cord, and nerves; responsible for quick body responses.