Gametogenesis

Question 1

What is gametogenesis?

Answer 1

• the formation of mature gametes by the reproductive glands (gonads)

Question 2

What are gametes?

Answer 2

• sperm and eggs

Question 3

What does gametogenesis involve?

Answer 3

• meiosis
• a nuclear division which results in a halving of the number of chromosomes: from 46 (in body cells) to 23 (in gametes)

Question 4

Why does meiosis occur?

Answer 4

• to ensure that in fertilisation, the number of chromosomes returns to 46 in the zygote

Question 5

What is a zygote?

Answer 5

• a fertilised egg