Question

Describe in brief the functions of the following parts in the human male reproductive system:

(i) Testes

(ii) Seminal vesicle

(iii) Vas deferens

(iv) Urethra

Answer 1

Human male reproductive system:

1. Testes, Seminal vesicle, Vas deferens, Urethra are part of the human male reproductive system.

Functions:

(i) Testis:

1. These are the main reproductive part of the male reproductive system and the formation of germ cells or sperms takes place in the testis.
2. Testicles are oval-shaped organs which are located in the scrotum, just behind the penis due to low-temperature requirements than the body temperature for the sperm formation.
3. The main function of the testes is producing and storing sperm.
4. They also produce male hormones testosterone and other hormones called androgens. Androgens control how the male reproductive system grows and the development of masculine body features such as beards and a deep voice.
5. Testosterone is the most common form of androgen.
6. It is responsible for the growth of male genitals and sperm production.

(ii) Seminal vesicle:

1. There is only one pair of Seminal vesicles in man.
2. The seminal vesicle is the accessory gland in human males whose secretion activates the sperms.
3. The seminal vesicle and the prostate glands add their secretions so that the sperm are in a fluid that makes their transport easier, and this fluid also provides nutrition.

(iii) Vas deferens:

1. The vas deferens is a long, muscular tube that travels from the epididymis into the pelvic cavity, to just behind the bladder.
2. The vas deferens transports mature sperm to the urethra in preparation for ejaculation.
3. It is involved in transporting spermatozoa from the epididymis to the ejaculatory ducts.

(iv) Urethra:

1. The urethra is a shared terminal duct of the reproductive and urinary systems.
2. It originates from the urinary bladder’s neck and opens to the exterior at the tip of the penis in males and the perineum in females.
3. It is a common pathway for the passage of urine and semen. The female urethra is shorter than the male urethra.