Biological termHard0.5 marks
5(b)
Give appropriate biological / technical terms for the following:
The accessory gland in human males whose secretion neutralises the acid in the vagina.
Topic: Cowper’s glands
Previous-year question practice database
Answer
Exam answer
COWPER’S GLANDS (bulbourethral glands).
Explanation
The secretion is ALKALINE and neutralises the acidity of the urethra (left by urine) and of the vagina (about pH 4), so that the sperms are not immobilised or killed.
The SEMINAL VESICLES and the PROSTATE also contribute alkaline secretions, so either may be accepted — but the bulbourethral (Cowper’s) glands are the ones specifically noted for neutralising acidity before the semen passes.
More from The Reproductive System
During which phase of the menstrual cycle does the endometrium shed?2026The surgical technique for females that can be used to prevent pregnancy.2026Fill in the blanks (a) to (e) with reference to the diagram of the human sperm:
(a) The cap-like structure covering the head of the sperm is the __________.
(b) The enzyme produced by it is __________.
(c) The nucleus of the sperm contains __________ chromosomes.
(d) The middle piece contains __________, which supply energy for motility.
(e) The mixture of sperms and the secretions of the male accessory glands is called __________.2026Morula, Blastocyst, Oviduct, Foetus2026Where is the prostate gland located?2026Why does the prostate gland produce an alkaline secretion?2026