Reproductive and Urinary System Notes

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to the reproductive and urinary systems, including cellular processes, anatomical structures, and physiological functions.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that produces haploid reproductive cells (gametes) used in sexual reproduction.

Spermatogenesis

The process of male gamete formation occurring in the testes.

Oogenesis

The process of female gamete formation occurring in the ovaries.

Diploid

A cell containing two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent (2n).

Haploid

A cell containing one set of chromosomes (n).

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and ova) produced through meiosis.

Seminiferous tubules

Coiled structures within the testes where spermatogenesis occurs.

Corpus luteum

The structure formed in the ovary after ovulation that secretes hormones.

Nephron

The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.

Glomerular filtration

The process where blood pressure forces water and solutes out of the blood and into Bowman's capsule.

Tubular reabsorption

The process that reclaims water, glucose, and ions from the filtrate back into the blood.

Tubular secretion

The transfer of waste substances from the blood into the nephron tubule.

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)

A hormone that regulates water balance in the body by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys.

Electrolytes

Minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and are essential for various bodily functions.

Bicarbonate buffer system

A system that helps maintain pH balance in the blood by regulating carbonic acid and bicarbonate levels.

Prophase II

The second stage of meiosis II where the chromosomes condense and the nuclear envelope breaks down.

Tidal volume

The amount of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing.

Vital capacity

The total amount of air that can be exhaled after a maximal inhalation.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Neutrophils

The most abundant type of white blood cell that provides the first line of defense against infection.