NMAT Biology Practice Test

The process that begins at puberty and results in four viable sperm cells per parent cell is spermatogenesis. This is a specialized form of gametogenesis specifically related to the formation of sperm cells in males.

Spermatogenesis takes place in the seminiferous tubules of the testes and involves a series of stages where spermatogonia (the initial germ cells) undergo mitotic and meiotic divisions. Starting from one diploid spermatogonia, the process ultimately leads to the production of four haploid sperm cells, ensuring genetic diversity and the capability for fertilization.

During puberty, there is an increase in hormone levels, particularly testosterone, which triggers the onset of active spermatogenesis. The production of sperm cells continues throughout a male's life, in contrast to oogenesis in females, which results in a limited number of eggs (ova).

Other options pertain to different processes. Oogenesis is related to egg formation and typically results in one viable egg and polar bodies, while folliculogenesis pertains specifically to the development of ovarian follicles. Gametogenesis is a broader term that encompasses both spermatogenesis and oogenesis, but it does not specifically address the formation of sperm cells.