is when ovulation in girls and spe production in boys signals the ability to produce children. Adolescence Puberty Reproductive Maturity Secondary Sex Characteristics

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to identify the stage in human development when ovulation in girls and sperm production in boys signal the ability to reproduce. This is a significant milestone in human development, indicating the onset of reproductive maturity.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Let's analyze each of the given options:<br /><br />- Adolescence: This is a transitional stage of physical and psychological development that generally occurs during the period from puberty to legal adulthood. While it includes the development of secondary sexual characteristics, it is not specifically the stage when reproductive maturity is achieved.<br /><br />- Puberty: This is the stage when adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction. It is marked by the onset of ovulation in girls and sperm production in boys.<br /><br />- Reproductive Maturity: This term refers to the stage when an individual is capable of reproduction. However, it is not a specific stage of development but rather a state that is achieved during puberty.<br /><br />- Secondary Sex Characteristics: These are physical features that distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction. They develop during puberty but do not indicate reproductive maturity.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Based on the above analysis, the correct answer is Puberty. This is the stage when ovulation in girls and sperm production in boys signal the ability to reproduce.