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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes a mature spermatozoon?
A
A cell with two nuclei and no acrosome
B
A large, immotile cell containing yolk granules
C
A diploid cell with abundant cytoplasm and no tail
D
A haploid cell with a flagellum specialized for motility
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure and function of a mature spermatozoon: A mature sperm cell is specialized for reproduction and is designed to deliver genetic material to the egg. It is haploid, meaning it contains half the number of chromosomes (n) compared to a diploid cell (2n).
Examine the components of a mature spermatozoon: It consists of a head, which contains the haploid nucleus and is capped by the acrosome (a structure that helps the sperm penetrate the egg); a midpiece, which contains mitochondria for energy production; and a flagellum (tail) for motility.
Eliminate incorrect options based on the characteristics of a mature spermatozoon: A mature sperm cell does not have two nuclei, abundant cytoplasm, or yolk granules. It is small, streamlined, and specialized for movement and fertilization.
Focus on the correct description: A mature spermatozoon is a haploid cell with a flagellum specialized for motility. The flagellum enables the sperm to swim toward the egg, and the acrosome facilitates the penetration of the egg's outer layers.
Review the biological significance: The haploid nature of the sperm ensures that when it fuses with the haploid egg during fertilization, the resulting zygote will be diploid, restoring the full chromosome number and enabling proper development.