Human Anatomy and Physiology : Help with Male Physiology

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Human Anatomy and Physiology

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Example Questions

Example Question #2 : Reproductive Physiology

Which male reproductive structure is responsible for the storage of sperm cells?

Possible Answers:

Vas deferens

Prostate gland

Epididymis

Seminiferous tubules

Correct answer:

Epididymis

Explanation:

After developing in the seminiferous tubules, sperm cells are transferred to the epididymis in order to be stored prior to ejaculation. The sperm cells also mature further and develop the ability to swim in the epididymis.

The vas deferens is the duct connecting the epididymis to the ejaculatory ducts. The prostate gland, bulbourethral gland, and seminal vesicles produce alkaline and lubricating fluids for the composition of semen.

Example Question #3 : Reproductive Physiology

Which of the following glands does NOT contribute to seminal fluid?

Possible Answers:

The prostate

The testes

The bulbourethral glands

The seminal vesicles

Correct answer:

The testes

Explanation:

Semen is composed of fluid from the three following glands: the seminal vesicles, the prostate, and the bulbourethral glands. These glands secrete alkaline fluids that help neutralize the acidity of the vagina, preventing degradation and damage of sperm.

The testes are the site of development for sperm cells, but they do not contribute to the fluidity of semen.

Example Question #4 : Reproductive Physiology

Which process describes the quick discharge of semen from the male human body?

Possible Answers:

Ejaculation

Gestation

Oogenesis

Spermatogenesis

Emission

Correct answer:

Ejaculation

Explanation:

By definition, ejaculation is the process by which sperm is released. This process usually occurs during the orgasm stage of the sexual response cycle in males. Emission is the phase directly preceding ejaculation in which the sperm are prepared for release. Spermatogenesis is constantly occurring and occurs within the seminiferous tubules. Oogenesis and gestation are female-associated.

Example Question #5 : Reproductive Physiology

Which of the following allows for fluids such as urine and semen to leave the body?

Possible Answers:

Urethra

Seminal vesicles

Epididymis

Seminiferous tubules

Vas deferens

Correct answer:

Urethra

Explanation:

In males, the urethra is the vessel that allows for the excretion/expulsion of semen and urine. The seminiferous tubules and epididymis are located in the testes, and are involved in spermatogenesis. The vas deferens is the vessel that carries sperm and semen from the testes to the urethra, picking up seminal fluids from the seminal vesicle and prostate gland.

Example Question #6 : Reproductive Physiology

Which of these structures functions in the maturation and storage of sperm?

Possible Answers:

Testis

Epididymis

Seminal vesicles

Ejaculatory duct

Correct answer:

Epididymis

Explanation:

The epididymis is an anatomical structure in the male reproductive system. It functions in the maturation and storage of spermatozoa and in propulsion of the spermatozoa into the vas deferens. The ejaculatory duct is responsible for propelling spermatozoa with seminal fluid into the urethra. The testis is responsible for producing spermatozoa and secreting the sex hormones. Lastly, the seminal vesicles are responsible for producing the alkaline component of seminal fluid.

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