Question

If a germ cell in a female gonad and a germ cell in a male gonad begin undergoing meiosis simultaneously, what will be the ratio of ova and sperms produced?

• A. 1:1
• B. 1:2
• C. 1:4
• D. 2:1

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

1:4

During spermatogenesis, spermatogonia undergo mitosis to produce cells called as primary spermatocytes, that undergo meiosis; meiosis I produce two secondary spermatocytes (n), which is followed by meiosis II, that produces four spermatids. Thus each round of spermatogenesis forms four sperms from a single germ cell. During oogenesis, primary oocyte undergoes first meiotic division to produce one secondary oocyte (egg cell) and one polar body (nonfunctional cell). Thus, one round of oogenesis produces one ovum. Hence, the correct answer is option C.