Final answer:
The male gonads, known as the testes, are responsible for producing sperm and the hormone testosterone. They are contained within the scrotum and are critical to male fertility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The male gonads are referred to as testes (singular: testis), which are essential organs in the male reproductive system. They are responsible for producing both sperm, which are the male gametes, and androgens, such as testosterone. The testes are active throughout a male's reproductive life span and are involved in the process of spermatogenesis that occurs within the seminiferous tubules. They are contained within the scrotum, which is the muscular sac that holds the testes outside of the body cavity to maintain an optimal temperature for sperm production.