The word root referring to the pair of almond-shaped organs in the female pelvic cavity; stores ovary
a. oophor
b. orchid
c. prostat
d. salping
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a. oophor.
Explanation:
The term “oophor” comes from the Greek word oophoron, meaning “egg-bearing” or “ovary.” The ovaries are a pair of almond-shaped organs located in the female pelvic cavity. They are responsible for storing and releasing eggs (ova), as well as producing hormones such as estrogen and progesterone that regulate the menstrual cycle and support pregnancy.
Each ovary contains thousands of immature eggs at birth, which mature and are released during the menstrual cycle in a process called ovulation. The ovaries play a crucial role in female reproductive health and fertility. When an egg is released, it travels down the fallopian tube, where fertilization by sperm can occur, leading to pregnancy.
In medical terminology, “oophorectomy” refers to the surgical removal of one or both ovaries, often performed to treat conditions like ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or other reproductive health issues. The prefix “oophor-” is commonly used in words related to the ovaries, such as “oophoritis” (inflammation of the ovaries).
It is important to differentiate “oophor” from the other options:
- b. orchid refers to the male reproductive organs, specifically the testes, where sperm is produced.
- c. prostat refers to the prostate gland in males, which is involved in producing seminal fluid.
- d. salping refers to the fallopian tubes, which connect the ovaries to the uterus.
Thus, “oophor” is the correct root for the ovaries, where ova (eggs) are stored and matured.