Photo AI
Sperm is produced, transported and then combined with secretions from the accessory glands to form semen - NSC Life Sciences - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 4
Sperm is produced, transported and then combined with secretions from the accessory glands to form semen. The semen is then transferred into the body of the female w... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Sperm is produced, transported and then combined with secretions from the accessory glands to form semen - NSC Life Sciences - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Formation and transport of semen
Answer
Sperm matures and is temporarily stored in the epididymis. During ejaculation, sperm moves into the vas deferens. As it passes the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and Cowper's glands, fluids are added that provide nutrition, promote the movement of the sperm, and neutralise the acids produced in the vagina. The semen then passes through the urethra, into the vagina, and swims up the Fallopian tube where it meets the ovum during copulation.
Step 3
Structural suitability of the sperm cell for fertilisation
Answer
- The acrosome: Contains enzymes to dissolve a path into the ovum.
- Nucleus of the sperm: Carries genetic material of the male, having a haploid number of chromosomes.
- Many mitochondria: Located in the midpiece, providing energy for motility, enabling the sperm cell to swim towards the ovum.
Additionally, the contents of the sperm cell, such as the cytoplasm, are reduced to optimise for efficient movement.