Final answer:
Spermatogenesis and oogenesis are both forms of gametogenesis that take place through meiosis. Spermatogenesis produces four sperm cells, while oogenesis produces one egg cell. The processes differ in timing and the number of cells produced.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spermatogenesis and oogenesis are both forms of gametogenesis that take place through meiosis. Spermatogenesis is the process of formation of four sperm in the testes in males, while oogenesis is the process of formation of one ovum in the ovaries in females.
Both processes involve meiosis, which is a type of cell division that produces haploid cells with half the number of chromosomes found in diploid cells. However, there are some differences between spermatogenesis and oogenesis.
One major difference is the timing of the processes. Spermatogenesis begins at puberty and continues throughout the male's life, producing millions of sperm cells every day. On the other hand, oogenesis begins before birth and pauses at the prophase of meiosis I. The process resumes at puberty and continues until menopause, with only one mature egg being produced each month.
Another difference is the number and type of cells finally produced. Spermatogenesis results in the formation of four functional sperm cells from one diploid spermatogonium. On the other hand, oogenesis results in the formation of one functional egg cell from one diploid oogonium.