Question

Which of the following statements are correct about the structure of a sperm?

• [A.] It is composed of head, thorax, neck and tail.
• [B.] The neck region contains a lot of mitochondria.
• [C.] The mitochondria produce energy for the movement of the tail.
• [D.] The tail facilitates sperm motility essential for fertilization.

• A. A and B only
• B. B and C only
• C. C and D only
• D. B and D only

Hint:

The acrosome present at the tip of sperm head contains enzymes that help the sperm penetrate the ovum during fertilization.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A mature spermatozoon is a microscopic, motile male gamete enveloped by a plasma membrane. Its structure is highly specialized, with distinct anatomical regions designed to carry genetic material and generate the mechanical propulsion needed to reach and fertilize an ovum.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's check the scientific accuracy of each statement: - Statement A is incorrect: A human sperm cell consists of a head, neck, middle piece, and tail. It does not have a "thorax" (which is an anatomical region found in insects and mammals). - Statement B is incorrect: The middle piece (midpiece) of the sperm houses numerous spirally arranged mitochondria, not the neck. The short neck region primarily contains the centrioles. - Statement C is correct: The numerous mitochondria packed into the middle piece generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP) via cellular respiration. This ATP serves as the vital fuel source for flagellar movement. - Statement D is correct: The elongated, whip-like tail executes wave-like swimming motions, providing the sperm motility required to travel through the female reproductive tract toward the egg. Since statements C and D are the only correct facts, option (C) is the right answer.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct statements are C and D only, making option (C) the correct choice.