SEX CELL Meaning and
Definition
-
A sex cell, also known as a germ cell or reproductive cell, refers to a specialized cell that is involved in sexual reproduction. These cells are responsible for the transmission of genetic material from one generation to the next.
In most multicellular organisms, including humans, sex cells are differentiated into two distinct types: the sperm cells (male sex cells) and the egg cells or ova (female sex cells). Sperm cells are produced in the testes of males, whereas egg cells are produced in the ovaries of females.
Sex cells are unique compared to other body cells because they contain only half of the genetic information required for the development of a new individual. This is achieved through a process called meiosis, wherein the parent cell undergoes two cell divisions to produce four haploid cells (half the number of chromosomes). During the process, genetic recombination can occur, leading to increased genetic diversity in offspring.
The union of a sperm cell and an egg cell during fertilization creates a zygote, which is the first cell of a new individual. This zygote contains a complete set of chromosomes, half from each parent, and has the potential to develop into a fully formed organism.
Understanding the structure and function of sex cells is crucial in comprehending the basics of sexual reproduction and evolutionary processes, as well as in reproductive medicine and technology.
Common Misspellings for SEX CELL
- aex cell
- zex cell
- xex cell
- dex cell
- eex cell
- wex cell
- swx cell
- ssx cell
- sdx cell
- srx cell
- s4x cell
- s3x cell
- sez cell
- sec cell
- sed cell
- ses cell
- sex xell
- sex vell
- sex fell
- sexcell
Etymology of SEX CELL
The term "sex cell" is composed of two separate words, each with its own etymology:
1. Sex: The word "sex" is derived from the Latin word "sexus", which originally meant "division" or "distinction". It eventually came to refer specifically to the biological distinction between male and female organisms.
2. Cell: The word "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", meaning "a small room" or "chamber". It was first used in the context of biology by the English scientist Robert Hooke, who described the small compartments he observed under a microscope as "cells" in the 17th century.
When combined, "sex cell" refers to the specialized cells involved in sexual reproduction, such as sperm cells or egg cells.
Similar spelling words for SEX CELL
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
