What is Ovum?
The ovum, also known as the egg cell or oocyte, is the female reproductive cell produced in the ovaries. It is considerably larger than sperm and contains the maternal genetic material in the nucleus. The ovum is specialized for fertilization, serving as the recipient of sperm and contributing half of the genetic material necessary for the formation of a new individual.
- Production: Unlike sperm, the ovum is not continuously produced in the ovaries; instead, it is cycled out once every menstrual cycle. Changes in the body’s hormones, notably the rise in luteinizing hormone, cause the ovum to release (LH).
- Function: The fundamental purpose of the ovum is to combine with the sperm during sexual activity in order to generate a zygote, which then matures into an embryo.
- Lifespan: The ovum has a brief lifespan, often lasting 12 to 24 hours after ovulation.
Structure of Ovum
- Cell Membrane: The outermost layer of the ovum providing structure and protection.
- Cytoplasm: A gel-like substance containing organelles essential for the ovum’s metabolic activities.
- Nucleus: Contains the genetic material, including chromosomes, necessary for fertilization and embryo development.
- Zona Pellucida: A thick glycoprotein layer surrounding the ovum, helping in fertilization and providing protection.
- Corona Radiata: A layer of cells surrounding the zona pellucida, assisting in the ovum’s passage through the female reproductive tract and interacting with sperm during fertilization.
Difference Between Sperm and Ovum
The difference between sperm and ovum lies in its size, structure, and function. Sperm and ovum are the two essential components that make sexual reproduction possible. Sperm are smaller, mobile, and responsible for fertilizing the ovum, which is larger and immobile. These two cells are very different from each other in their characteristics and functions, and understanding their differences is important in learning the process of sexual reproduction. In this article, we study the difference between sperm and ovum.
Table of Content
- Sperm
- Ovum
- Difference Between Sperm and Ovum
- Similarities Between Sperm and Ovum
- Conclusion – Difference Between Sperm and Ovum