Reproduction in Plants & Humans - Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Biology

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering vocabulary related to reproduction in plants and humans as per the IGCSE Biology syllabus.

Asexual Reproduction

A type of reproduction that does not involve sex cells or fertilisation; results in genetically identical offspring from one parent.

Binary Fission

A type of asexual reproduction where bacteria produce exact genetic copies of themselves.

Zygote

A fertilised egg cell formed by the fusion of the nuclei of two gametes.

Gamete

A sex cell; in animals, it is the sperm and ovum; in plants, it is the pollen nucleus and ovum.

Haploid Nucleus

A nucleus containing half the number of chromosomes of a normal body cell.

Diploid Nucleus

A nucleus containing two sets of chromosomes, typical of a zygote.

Pollination

The transfer of pollen grains from the male part of a flower to the female part of the same or another flower.

Fertilisation

The fusion of a pollen nucleus with an ovum nucleus.

Oviduct

The tube through which an ovum travels from the ovary to the uterus, where fertilisation occurs.

Menstrual Cycle

A monthly cycle in females controlled by hormones, involving ovulation and preparation of the uterus for potential implantation.

STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)

Infections passed between individuals through unprotected sexual contact.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

A virus that attacks the body's immune system, often leading to AIDS.

Testes

Male reproductive organs that produce sperm and testosterone.

Ovary

The female reproductive organ that contains ova (egg cells) and is responsible for their maturation.

Placenta

The organ that connects the fetus to the mother, allowing for nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange.

Scrotum

A pouch of skin that holds the testes outside the body to regulate their temperature.

Embryo

The early development stage of a fertilised egg cell before it becomes a fetus.

Cervix

The lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina and helps keep the fetus in place during pregnancy.

Secondary Sexual Characteristics

Changes that occur during puberty, influenced by hormones, distinguishing male and female traits.