Question

If a germ cell in a female gonad and a germ cell in a male gonad begin undergoing meiosis simultaneously, what will be the ratio of ova and sperms produced?
A. 1:1
B. 1:2
C. 1:4
D. 2:1

Answer 1

Hint: When a germ cell in a female gonad as well as a germ cell in a male gonad starts meiosis simultaneously, the ratio of ova and sperms produced will be 1:4 because a single germ cell in male produces four sperms while a single germ cell in female produces single ova.

Complete answer:
Gametogenesis is the process by which male and female sex cells or gametes (sperms and ova) are formed respectively in the male and female gonad (testes and ovaries). Meiosis is known as the most significant part of the process of gametogenesis. Gametogenesis that forms sperms is termed as spermatogenesis, while that of ova is called oogenesis. Both spermatogenesis and oogenesis comprise the same steps of sequential changes, i.e., multiplication phase, growth phase and maturation phase.

In males after meiosis, one spermatocyte forms four haploid spermatids that transform into spermatozoa by the process of spermiogenesis. Later on, the spermatozoa are known as sperms. Many hormones such as GnRH, LH, FSH and androgens are involved in stimulating the spermatogenesis.
In females after meiosis, 1 ovum and 3 degenerated polar bodies are formed. The ovum is the actual female gamete. The polar bodies do not take part in reproduction and hence soon degenerate. During the menstrual cycle, ovum is released from the Graafian follicle. The release of an ovum from the Graafian follicle is called ovulation. Ovulation is usually controlled by the hormone pituitary gland.

So, the correct answer is option C.

Note:
An organism undergoes a sequence of changes throughout its life cycle. Gametogenesis, i.e., spermatogenesis and oogenesis, plays a very crucial role in humans to support the continuance of generations. Gametogenesis is the process of dividing diploid cells to produce new haploid cells. In humans, two different types of gametes are present. Male gametes are called sperm and female gametes are called the ovum.