What is the primary purpose of the reproductive system?

The primary purpose of the reproductive system is to produce gametes and facilitate reproduction. This system is crucial for the continuation of species, as it enables the creation of new individuals through the fusion of male and female gametes (sperm and eggs). In many organisms, the reproductive system not only generates these gametes but also provides the necessary environment for fertilization and development of offspring.

In humans, the male reproductive system produces sperm in the testes, while the female reproductive system produces eggs in the ovaries. Additionally, it includes structures that facilitate mating and the gestation of embryos, ensuring that new life can develop and grow until it is capable of surviving independently.

The other alternatives represent functions that, while important for survival, are not related to reproduction. Eliminating waste products pertains to the excretory system; producing hormones is primarily related to the endocrine system, which regulates various bodily functions; and providing structural support is mainly a function of the skeletal system.