AP Biology : Understanding Internal Anatomy

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Biology

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Reproductive System

Which part of the male reproductive system is responsible for sperm storage and maturation?

Possible Answers:

Testes

Vas deferens

Seminal vesicles

Epididymis

Correct answer:

Epididymis

Explanation:

Sperm cells are stored and mature in the epididymis until they are transported to the urethra through the vas deferens. The testes are the site of sperm production, while the seminal vesicles produce fluids that are later incorporated into semen.

Example Question #2 : Reproductive System

Which of the following glands contribute to the production of semen?

Possible Answers:

Bulbourethral glands

Prostate gland

All of the other choices are correct

Seminal vesicles

Correct answer:

All of the other choices are correct

Explanation:

The seminal vesicles secrete seminal fluid to promote and nourish sperm as they are released. The bulbourethral glands secrete a component of seminal fluid, while the prostate gland secretes alkaline fluid.

Example Question #1 : Reproductive System

Which of the following is responsible for the production of germ cells?

Possible Answers:

Ovaries

Uterus

Endometrium

Fallopian tubes

Correct answer:

Ovaries

Explanation:

"Germ cells" is simply another term for gametes, and thus refers to either sperm or ovum.

Ovum are produced in the ovaries. After production, the fallopian tubes propel ovum to the uterus using the movement of cilia. The endometrium is the lining of the uterus, and allows for implantation of a fertilized ovum.

Example Question #4 : Reproductive System

Where does fertilization typically take place in the female?

Possible Answers:

Uterus

Ovary

Fallopian tubes

Cervix

Correct answer:

Fallopian tubes

Explanation:

In the majority of cases, fertilization occurs in the fallopian tubes of the female. The egg is released from the ovary and travels into the fallopian tube during ovulation. Sperm travel to the fallopian tube to fertilize the egg, creating a zygote. The zygote begins to divide, forming a blastocyst before it reaches the uterus where it becomes embedded in the endometrium via the process of implantation. Certain pregnancy complications can arise if the blastocyst implants while still in the fallopian tube, resulting in ectopic pregnancy.

Example Question #5 : Understanding Internal Anatomy

What is the site of sperm maturation and storage in males?

Possible Answers:

Epididymis

Prostate

Seminiferous tubules

Vas deferens

Correct answer:

Epididymis

Explanation:

Sperm is created in the seminiferous tubules of the testes. It is then transported to the epididymis, where it will mature and be stored prior to ejaculation.

Example Question #5 : Reproductive System

The epididymis, vas deferens, and urethra are a series of ducts found in which body system?

Possible Answers:

Lymphatic

Integumentary

Endocrine

Digestive

Male reproductive

Correct answer:

Male reproductive

Explanation:

The male reproductive system consists of a series of ducts, which includes the epididymis, vas deferens, and urethra. The epididymis is a coiled tube attached to the testis, which receives sperm from the seminiferous tubules. The vas deferens connects the epididymis with the urethra, which in turn conducts sperm to the tip of the penis. 

Example Question #6 : Reproductive System

What term refers to the finger-like folds that line the fallopian tubes?

Possible Answers:

Flagella

Microtubules

Endoderm

Fimbriae

Villi

Correct answer:

Fimbriae

Explanation:

In female mammals, the fimbriae are finger-like projections that sweep the ovulated egg from the ovary into the oviduct.

Villi are found in the digestive tract and work to increase surface area for more efficient absorption of nutrients. Flagella are threadlike structures that provide motility for sperm. Microtubules are composed of the protein tubulin, and are used in the construction of cilia and flagella. The endoderm is the innermost embryonic tissue layer, which develops to form the lining of the respiratory and digestive tracts. 

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