Describe four ways in which a sperm cell is adapted to carry out its function.

Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 2.1 Cell structure and organisation · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

1. Many mitochondria in the midpiece supply ATP for motility.
2. The flagellum (tail) propels the sperm through the female reproductive tract.
3. The acrosome at the head contains enzymes that digest the zona pellucida of the egg.
4. The sperm carries a haploid nucleus, providing half the chromosomes for fertilisation.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terms: mitochondria, flagellum, acrosome, haploid nucleus. Show each adaptation as a separate point. Mention the function (energy, movement, enzyme release, chromosome number).

Common mistakes

Confusing the tail with the head; describing the tail as the head. Omitting the role of mitochondria. Using vague terms like "powerful" instead of "ATP".

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Many mitochondria provide energy for movement / to reach the egg cell
Tail allows the sperm cell to move / swim towards the egg
Acrosome contains enzymes to digest / break down the egg membrane (or surrounding cells)
Haploid nucleus / contains half the normal number of chromosomes so the embryo has the correct number of chromosomes after fertilisation

Key terms in this question

sperm cell