Question

Draw a diagram of a human sperm. Label any four parts and write their functions.

Answer 1

Functions of parts:

1. Head: The nucleus, which houses the genetic material (DNA) required for fertilisation, is in the sperm's head. Enzymes that help penetrate and fertilise the egg are found in the acrosome, a cap-like structure that covers the head.
2. Midpiece: Numerous mitochondria in the sperm's midpiece supply the energy (in the form of ATP) required for motility or body movement. The sperm's tail beats because of the electricity provided by mitochondria.
3. Tail (Flagellum): The sperm moves around due to its tail, also called the flagellum. For the sperm to reach and pierce the egg for fertilisation, it must be propelled through the female reproductive canal.
4. Neck: During sperm maturation and motility, the neck of the sperm facilitates the transfer of genetic material from the head to the tail and joins the head to the midpiece.