What is the Difference Between Sperm and semen?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Sperm and semen are two distinct components related to male reproductive health. Here are the key differences between them:
- Composition: Sperm are the male reproductive cells, whereas semen is the fluid that contains sperm and other fluids from the prostate, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral glands. Semen is a combination of mature sperm and fluids from the prostate, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral glands.
- Function: Sperm are responsible for fertilizing the egg, while semen is the fluid that carries and nourishes sperm as they travel to the egg for fertilization.
- Production: Sperm are produced in the testes, while semen is formed in several different places, including the testicles, epididymis, vas deferens, and other accessory glands.
- Ejaculation: Semen, also known as ejaculate or cum, is the whitish fluid that comes out of the penis during ejaculation. Sperm, as a component of semen, are not a part of semen.
In summary, sperm are the microscopic reproductive cells that fertilize the egg, while semen is the fluid that carries and nourishes sperm for fertilization. It is important for couples to understand the differences between sperm and semen when trying to conceive.
Comparative Table: Sperm vs semen
Here is a table comparing the differences between sperm and semen:
Feature | Sperm | Semen |
---|---|---|
Definition | Sperm is the male reproductive cell, also known as a gamete. | Semen is the fluid that carries sperm and is composed of various substances. |
Occurrence | Sperm is produced by both animals and plants. | Semen is produced by male animals and hermaphrodites. |
Composition | Sperm consists of a head, midsection, and tail, with the head containing male DNA material. | Semen is composed of sperm and other secretions from various reproductive and non-reproductive glands. |
Role | Sperm's main function is to fertilize the female egg cell. | Semen nourishes, protects, and provides motility to sperm, helping them reach the egg. |
Production | Sperm production begins during puberty. | Semen is ejaculated from the penis during sexual activity. |
Lifespan | Sperm can live up to five days inside a vagina. | Semen is discharged through the process of ejaculation. |
In summary, sperm and semen are distinct components involved in the process of human reproduction. Sperm is the male reproductive cell responsible for fertilizing the female egg, while semen is the fluid that carries sperm and provides nutrition, protection, and motility.
Read more:
- Sperm vs Egg
- Precum vs Sperm
- Sperm vs Cervical Mucus
- Sperm vs White Discharge
- Spermiogenesis vs Spermiation
- Spermatogenesis vs Spermiogenesis
- Seminal Vesicle vs Prostate Gland
- Male vs Female Gametes
- Spermatogenesis vs Oogenesis
- Gonads vs Gametes
- Somatic Cells vs Gametes
- Seminoma vs Nonseminoma
- Male vs Female Germ Cell
- Corpus Cavernosum vs Corpus Spongiosum
- Seminiferous Tubules vs Leydig Cells
- Male vs Female
- Sexual vs Asexual
- Aspermia vs Azoospermia
- Somatic vs Germ Cells