Where do sperm mature after they are produced?
A the prostate gland
B the epididymis
C the bulbourethral gland
D the seminal vesicles
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B: the epididymis.
After sperm are produced in the seminiferous tubules of the testes, they enter the epididymis for further maturation. The epididymis is a coiled tube located on the back of each testicle. It serves as the site where sperm undergo critical maturation and gain the ability to swim and fertilize an egg. This process takes around two to three weeks.
Sperm are initially immobile and immature when they leave the testes. During their time in the epididymis, they undergo changes in structure and function. The sperm gain motility, which is essential for swimming through the female reproductive tract to reach and fertilize an egg. They also undergo biochemical changes that enable them to recognize and penetrate the egg during fertilization.
The epididymis is divided into three sections: the head, body, and tail. Sperm enter the head of the epididymis and gradually move towards the tail, where they are stored until ejaculation. In addition to maturation, the epididymis also serves as a storage site for sperm. When ejaculation occurs, sperm are propelled from the epididymis through the vas deferens to be mixed with seminal fluid from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral gland, forming semen.
The other options listed do not play a role in sperm maturation. The prostate gland produces a fluid that helps nourish sperm and facilitates their movement, but it does not contribute to their maturation. The bulbourethral gland secretes a fluid that helps neutralize acidity in the urethra during ejaculation. The seminal vesicles produce fluid that combines with sperm to form semen but do not directly contribute to sperm maturation.