Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

27. The Reproductive System

Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System

Anatomy & Physiology

27. The Reproductive System

Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System

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2:11 minutes

Problem 16

Textbook Question

What is the function of seminal fluid? Name the three types of glands that help produce it.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the function of seminal fluid: Seminal fluid is a component of semen that serves multiple purposes, including providing a medium for sperm to swim, nourishing sperm with nutrients like fructose, and protecting sperm by neutralizing the acidic environment of the female reproductive tract.

Identify the three types of glands involved in seminal fluid production: The seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral (Cowper's) glands are responsible for producing different components of seminal fluid.

Learn about the seminal vesicles: These paired glands produce a viscous fluid rich in fructose, which provides energy for sperm, and prostaglandins, which help stimulate contractions in the female reproductive tract to aid sperm movement.

Understand the role of the prostate gland: The prostate gland secretes a milky, alkaline fluid that helps neutralize the acidic environment of the vagina, ensuring sperm survival and motility.

Explore the function of the bulbourethral glands: These glands produce a clear, mucus-like fluid that lubricates the urethra and neutralizes any residual acidity from urine, creating a favorable pathway for sperm during ejaculation.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Seminal Fluid Function

Seminal fluid, or semen, serves multiple functions in reproduction. It provides a medium for sperm transport, nourishes sperm with nutrients, and contains substances that help neutralize the acidity of the female reproductive tract, enhancing sperm viability. Additionally, it plays a role in facilitating sperm motility and protecting sperm from immune responses.

Accessory Glands

The three main types of glands involved in the production of seminal fluid are the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands. The seminal vesicles contribute a significant portion of the fluid, rich in fructose for energy. The prostate gland adds additional fluid that contains enzymes and other substances, while the bulbourethral glands produce a pre-ejaculatory fluid that lubricates the urethra.

Semen Composition

Semen is composed of sperm cells and seminal fluid, which together create a complex mixture. The composition of seminal fluid includes water, sugars, proteins, and various enzymes, all of which are crucial for the survival and mobility of sperm. Understanding the composition helps in comprehending how seminal fluid supports reproductive success.

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