Question 1

Which of the following best explains how meiosis increases genetic diversity in offspring?

Accepted Answer

By introducing crossing over and random alignment of homologous chromosomes

Question 2

During which specific stage of meiosis does crossing over occur, and what is its significance?

Accepted Answer

Prophase I; it increases genetic variation by exchanging genetic material between homologous chromosomes

Question 3

A human somatic cell contains 46 chromosomes. After meiosis, how many chromosomes will each gamete contain?

Accepted Answer

$$23$$

Question 4

Which of the following scenarios could result from nondisjunction during meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Gametes with either too many or too few chromosomes, potentially leading to disorders such as Turner or Klinefelter syndrome

Question 5

Which structure in the male reproductive system is responsible for producing sperm and androgens?

Accepted Answer

Testes

Question 6

A patient is diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome. Which chromosomal composition is most likely present in this individual?

Accepted Answer

$$XXY$$

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the function of the epididymis in the male reproductive system?

Accepted Answer

It is the site where sperm mature and are stored before ejaculation

Question 8

Which of the following is a direct consequence of random alignment of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I of meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Gametes have a unique combination of maternal and paternal chromosomes

Question 9

A woman is found to have only one X chromosome (XO). Which syndrome does this describe, and what is a likely effect on fertility?

Accepted Answer

Turner syndrome; reduced fertility

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why sperm cells contain many mitochondria?

Accepted Answer

To provide energy for the movement of the flagellum during travel to the egg

Question 11

Which structure releases mature eggs during ovulation in the female reproductive system?

Accepted Answer

Ovaries

Question 12

A couple is experiencing infertility. The male partner has a history of anabolic steroid use and obesity. Which of the following best explains how these factors can reduce fertility?

Accepted Answer

Steroid use shrinks testes and reduces androgen production, while obesity decreases androgen production and increases scrotal temperature

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of the prostate gland in the male reproductive system?

Accepted Answer

It secretes a thin, milky white nutrient-rich fluid into the urethra

Question 14

A woman with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is having trouble conceiving. Which of the following best explains why PCOS can cause infertility?

Accepted Answer

PCOS causes cysts in the ovaries and higher androgen secretion, disrupting ovulation

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the difference between haploid and diploid cells in humans?

Accepted Answer

Haploid cells contain one set of chromosomes ($$n = 23$$); diploid cells contain two sets ($$2n = 46)$$

Question 16

A man is diagnosed with varicocele, which affects the veins in the scrotum. What is the most likely consequence for his fertility?

Accepted Answer

Reduced sperm production due to impaired temperature regulation

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia can cause permanent infertility in women?

Accepted Answer

STIs can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, leading to scarring and blockages in the reproductive tract

Question 18

Which of the following is a direct function of the corpus luteum in the female reproductive system?

Accepted Answer

It secretes estrogen and progesterone after ovulation

Question 19

A 40-year-old woman is experiencing difficulty conceiving. Which of the following best explains the relationship between age and female fertility?

Accepted Answer

Female fertility declines with age due to a decrease in the number and quality of eggs

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the process and outcome of oogenesis in females?

Accepted Answer

Oogenesis produces one mature egg per menstrual cycle, with the rest of the cells becoming polar bodies

Meiosis and Human Reproduction: Fertility and Gametogenesis

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