Question

From production through ejaculation, which is the correct pathway for a sperm cell?

Answer 1

Sperm cells follow a specific pathway from production through ejaculation. The pathway involves several structures and glands in the male reproductive system.

Step-by-step explanation:

Sperm cells follow a specific pathway from production through ejaculation. This pathway involves several structures and glands in the male reproductive system. Here is the correct pathway for a sperm cell:

1. Spermatogenesis begins in the testes with the mitotic division of spermatogonia (stem cells).
2. The primary spermatocytes produced from spermatogonia undergo two divisions of meiosis to become secondary spermatocytes.
3. The secondary spermatocytes then undergo further division to form haploid spermatids.
4. During spermiogenesis, spermatids transform into spermatozoa, which are fully formed sperm cells.
5. The sperm cells are released from the seminiferous tubules and move into the epididymis to mature.
6. During ejaculation, the sperm exit the epididymis and pass through the ductus deferens, which is a duct in the spermatic cord that leaves the scrotum.
7. The ampulla of the ductus deferens meets the seminal vesicle, a gland that contributes fructose and proteins, at the ejaculatory duct.
8. The fluid formed by the seminal vesicle and the sperm move through the prostatic urethra, where secretions from the prostate are added to form semen.
9. The secretions from the bulbourethral glands then protect and lubricate the penile (spongy) urethra, facilitating the movement of sperm through the urethra and into the female reproductive tract.