Pathway+of+the+Sperm+Cell

Pathway of the Sperm Cells

The sperm cells are produced in the **testicles (testes)**. The sperm cells travel through the seminiferous tubules in to the epididymis (located above the testicle). The **epididymis** is responsible for storing the sperm cells until they have matured. The sperm cells then travel through the **vas deferens** where they pick up fluid from the **seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and cowper's gland**. This fluid and sperm cells is known as __semen__. The job of the fluid is to allow the sperm to move, give them nutrients, and provide a comfortable environment to survive. (protects sperm when entering the vagina). Semen is then release from the body during __ejaculation__. This occurs only when the penis is erect (erection). An __erection__ is when the penis's spongy tissue becomes engorged with blood. This makes the penis become stiff and hard. (a common misconception is that the penis is a bone) Semen is released through the tube inside the penis known as the **urethra**. In male, the urethra is responsible for releasing urine and semen out of the body.

//*Bold and underlined words will be assessed on the quiz//


 * __Order of the pathway of the sperm cells__**


 * 1. Testicles**
 * 2. Epidymis**
 * 3. Vas deferens**
 * 4. Seminal Vesicles**
 * 5. Prostate Gland**
 * 6. Cowper's Gland**
 * 7. Urethra**

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/86/Sperm-egg.jpg/350px-Sperm-egg.jpg http://img.tfd.com/vet/thumbs/gr358.jpg