2.3 Sexual Reproduction in Humans

What is the function of the ovaries?

• produces female gametes

• Secretes hormones; oestrogen and progesterone

How big is the ovary in diameter?

3-4cm wide

What is the function of the uterus?

• compact, muscular organ made up of 3 layers

• Nourishes and protects the growing foetus

What is the function of the cervix?

• neck of the uterus

• Muscular ring which closes the entrance to the uterus

• Dilates during birth

What is the function of the fallopian tubes?

• connects the ovaries to the uterus

• Ciliates epithelial cells convert the secondary oocyte to the uterus

What is the function of the endometrium?

• innermost layer of the uterus which is supplied with blood.

• Embryo becomes implanted here

• Internal surface is shed each month if not fertilised (menstruation)

What is the function the bladder.

• Storage of urine.

What is the function of the urethra (female)?

• connects to bladder, allowing passage of urine.

What is the function of the vagina?

• muscular tissue that leads to the outside of the body

What is the function of the seminal vesicle?

• glands that secrete a mucus into the vas deferens

• contains nutrients which are respired by sperm for energy

What is the function of the vas deferens?

• tube that takes the sperm from the testis to the urethra during ejaculation

What is function of the prostate gland?

• gland found at the base of the bladder

• produces an alkaline secretion which neutralises urine left in the urethra

• aids in sperm mobility

What is the function of the urethra (male)?

• tube that connects the bladder to outside

• passes through penis and transfers semen and urine to outside (not at the same time)

What is the function of the epididymus?

• sperm collect and mature here

What is the function of the seminiferous tube?

• tubes found in testis

• site of sperm production

What is the function of the testis?

• produces the male gametes (spermatozoa)

What is the function of the scrotum?

• external sac that holds the testes outside of the body

• gives an optimum temperature of 35 degrees for sperm production

What is the function of the penis?

• organ used to pass semen into the reproductive system

What is spermatogenesis?

The production of haploid spermatozoa from diploid spermatogonia.

Takes place in the seminiferous tubules of the testis.