Chapter 22: Reproductive Systems

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the male and female reproductive systems, emphasizing processes, structures, and hormones involved in reproduction.

Meiosis

A special type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid sex cells.

Sperm

The male sex cell produced in the male reproductive system.

Oocyte

The female sex cell, also referred to as an egg.

Chromosomes

Structures that carry genetic information; humans typically have 46 chromosomes.

Diploid

Cells containing two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Haploid

Cells that have only one set of chromosomes.

Gonads

The primary reproductive organs; testes in males and ovaries in females.

Testosterone

The primary male sex hormone responsible for the development of male characteristics.

Oogenesis

The process of egg cell formation in females.

Erection

The process by which erectile tissue becomes engorged with blood, resulting in an enlarged penis.

Semen

The fluid containing sperm and various secretions from the male reproductive glands.

Ovulation

The release of a mature egg from an ovarian follicle.

Uterine tube

Also known as fallopian tubes, they transport the ovulated egg from the ovary to the uterus.

Vagina

The muscular tube connecting the external genitals to the uterus.

Hormones

Chemical messengers released by glands that regulate various functions in the body.

Infertility

The inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse.

Fertilization

The process where a sperm cell and an egg cell unite.

Accessory organs

Additional structures in the reproductive system that assist in reproduction, such as the prostate gland and seminal vesicles.

Clitoris

A small projection in the female external reproductive system that is sensitive and involved in sexual arousal.