Final answer:
The statement in question is false; the uterine tubes, also known as fallopian tubes, are not in direct contact with the ovaries but have structures to guide the egg from the ovary to the tube.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement, 'The uterine tubes are directly in contact with the ovaries' is false. The uterine tubes, also known as fallopian tubes or oviducts, are indeed close to the ovaries but they are not physically attached. The ends of the fallopian tubes nearest the ovaries have extensions called fimbriae, which are fringe-like structures that actively move to guide eggs into the tubes following ovulation. Fertilization typically occurs in the fallopian tubes, then the fertilized egg travels to the uterus for implantation and development. Therefore, while the uterine tubes and ovaries work closely together to enable reproduction, they are not directly in contact.