Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What characterizes spermatogenesis?

1. Production of one egg every month

2. Production of four mature sperm continuously

3. Production of multiple ova with Y chromosomes

4. Production of sperm that donate mitochondria

The correct answer is: Production of four mature sperm continuously

Spermatogenesis is the process by which sperm cells are produced in the male reproductive system. One of the key characteristics of this process is that for each cycle of spermatogenesis, four mature sperm cells are generated from each precursor cell known as a spermatogonium. This continuous and prolific production of sperm occurs within the seminiferous tubules of the testes and typically starts at puberty, continuing throughout a male's life. The process involves several stages, including mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis, ultimately resulting in the formation of four haploid spermatozoa from a single diploid precursor. This efficiency and capability to produce many sperm continuously are essential for increasing the chances of successful fertilization. The other options describe processes or outcomes unrelated to spermatogenesis. The production of an egg every month pertains to oogenesis, which occurs in females. The mention of multiple ova and Y chromosomes does not accurately reflect the process of sperm production, as spermatogenesis pertains solely to sperm, not ova. Lastly, while mitochondria are critical for energy production in sperm, the notion of sperm donating mitochondria does not characterize the primary aim of spermatogenesis, which is sperm production rather than mitochondrial transfer.