What is the main role of sperm cells?

Sperm cells play a crucial role in reproduction, and their primary function is to fertilize an egg. This process is essential for the creation of a new organism, as fertilization involves the union of a sperm cell with an egg cell, leading to the formation of a zygote, which will develop into a new individual.

Sperm cells are specially adapted for this purpose. They have a streamlined shape, allowing them to swim efficiently towards the egg. Additionally, they have a tail (flagellum) that propels them through the reproductive tract. The head of the sperm contains genetic material and enzymes that help penetrate the outer layer of the egg during fertilization.

The other options do not accurately describe the role of sperm cells. While body cells do undergo replication, that process involves somatic cells, not sperm. Similarly, transporting nutrients is a function typically associated with other cell types, such as red blood cells. Lastly, hormone production is mainly the role of endocrine cells, not sperm cells. Thus, the main and distinguishing role of sperm cells is indeed to fertilize the egg.