Question

Differentiate between oogenesis and spermatogenesis on the following basis:
(a) Number of products
(b) Gonadal hormones

Hint:

Spermatogenesis is a continuous process starting at puberty, whereas oogenesis is a discontinuous process that starts before birth and ends at menopause.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understand the two processes.
Oogenesis is the process of formation of female gametes (ova) in the ovaries, while spermatogenesis is the process of formation of male gametes (sperms) in the testes.

Step 2: Differentiate on the basis of number of products.
During oogenesis, one primary oocyte undergoes meiotic divisions to form one functional ovum and three polar bodies. Only the ovum becomes a functional gamete.
During spermatogenesis, one primary spermatocyte undergoes meiotic divisions to produce four functional spermatozoa.

Step 3: Differentiate on the basis of gonadal hormones.
In oogenesis, the ovaries mainly secrete the hormone estrogen (and progesterone) which regulate the development of female reproductive structures and egg formation.
In spermatogenesis, the testes secrete the hormone testosterone, which stimulates sperm production and development of male secondary sexual characters.

Final Answer:
(a) Number of products:
Oogenesis → One ovum and three polar bodies
Spermatogenesis → Four functional sperm cells

(b) Gonadal hormones:
Oogenesis → Estrogen (and progesterone) from ovaries
Spermatogenesis → Testosterone from testes