What do the gonads primarily do?

• A. Produce white blood cells
• B. Generate offspring
• C. Regulate blood pressure
• D. Filter toxins from the blood

Answer: (B)

The gonads, which include the ovaries in females and the testes in males, are primarily responsible for the generation of offspring. They achieve this by producing gametes—ova in females and sperm in males—that are necessary for reproduction. Additionally, the gonads also play a crucial role in hormone production, which is vital for the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the regulation of reproductive processes.

The ability of the gonads to produce gametes is essential for sexual reproduction, as it allows for genetic material from two parents to combine, leading to the creation of offspring. This function is fundamental to the continuation of species and is a key focus of reproductive physiology.

In contrast, the other choices relate to functions performed by different organs or systems in the body that do not involve the gonads. For instance, white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow as part of the immune system, blood pressure regulation is primarily managed by the cardiovascular system, and the liver, along with the kidneys, plays a significant role in filtering toxins from the blood. Each of these is critical for maintaining homeostasis and overall health, but they do not pertain to the primary role of the gonads in reproduction.