Question

Which of the following contains a haploid set of chromosomes?
(a) Spermatogonium
(b) Primary spermatocyte
(c) Secondary spermatocyte
(d) Primordial germ cell

Answer 1

Hint: These are produced when the primary spermatocytes undergo the process of meiosis ll and whatever number of chromosomes present in the primary spermatocyte gets divided into both the cells formed after meiosis ll.

Correct step by step answer:
The secondary spermatocyte contains a haploid set of chromosomes. The spermatocyte is a type of male gametocyte in animals that are derived from spermatogonia, the immature germ cells. They are found in seminiferous tubules in the testis. The spermatocyte is of two types: the primary spermatocyte and the secondary spermatocyte. Through the process of spermatocytogenesis, both types of spermatocytes are formed. The primary spermatocyte has a diploid set of chromosomes, then it undergoes the process of division through meiosis I and forms two secondary spermatocytes. These secondary spermatocytes have a haploid set of chromosomes. After going through the process of meiosis ll these secondary spermatocytes will form two spermatids and later these spermatids get converted into sperms.

Additional Information:
-Around the age of 10 to 14 years in humans, the male child starts becoming sexually mature. This age is called the age of puberty. The formation of spermatocytes begins at this age.
-The spermatogenesis is enhanced by the release of FSH into the testes and also leads to the development of Sertoli cells where spermatids reach maturity after Meiosis II.
-The secretion of testosterone into the testes and blood is induced by the LH.
-Testosterone induces spermatogenesis and helps in the formation of secondary sex characteristics in male children after puberty.
-Both types of spermatocytes are sensitive to radiation and cancer, but the spermatogonial stem cells are not.

So, the correct answer is, 'Secondary spermatocyte'.

Note:
-The secondary spermatocytes are haploid in nature and contain half the number of chromosomes present in the primary spermatocyte.
-After a series of mitotic and meiotic divisions the spermatogonia from immature germ cells is converted into primary spermatocytes followed by the formation of secondary spermatocytes. Which later divides to form spermatids and finally the sperm is formed.
-The FSH is a follicle-stimulating hormone and LH is a luteinizing hormone released by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that helps in the formation of sperms in males.