The process of infusion of the spermatozoon with the mature ovum is called:
A. Ovulation
B. Gametogenesis
C. Fertilization
D. Implantation
The process of infusion (fusion) of the spermatozoon with the mature ovum is called Fertilization.
Correct Answer: C. Fertilization
Explanation
Fertilization is the biological process in which a sperm cell (spermatozoon) from the male fuses with an ovum (egg) from the female. This fusion results in the formation of a zygote, which is the first cell of a new organism. It typically occurs in the ampulla of the fallopian tube.
Key Points
• Sperm + Ovum → Zygote
Restores the diploid number of chromosomes (46 in humans).
• Determines the sex of the baby (XX = female, XY = male).
• Begins the process of embryonic development.
Other Options Details
Here are the descriptions of all the options:
A. Ovulation
Ovulation is the process in the female reproductive cycle in which a mature egg (ovum) is released from the ovary. This usually occurs around the 14th day of a 28-day menstrual cycle. After release, the ovum is captured by the fimbriae of the fallopian tube and begins its journey toward the uterus. Ovulation is triggered by a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). This is the period when a woman is most fertile and likely to conceive if sperm are present.
B. Gametogenesis
Gametogenesis is the process by which male and female sex cells (gametes) are produced. In males, it is known as spermatogenesis, which occurs in the testes and forms sperm cells. In females, it is known as oogenesis, occurring in the ovaries and producing ova (egg cells). These gametes contain half the normal number of chromosomes (haploid), ensuring that after fertilization the resulting zygote has a complete chromosome set.
C. Fertilization
Fertilization is the process where a sperm cell from the male fuses with an ovum from the female to form a zygote. In humans, fertilization commonly occurs in the ampulla of the fallopian tube. After sperm penetrates the ovum, their genetic material combines to create an embryo. This is the beginning of pregnancy. Successful fertilization requires millions of sperm, but only one sperm actually fuses with the egg.
D. Implantation
Implantation is the process where the fertilized egg (blastocyst) attaches to and embeds into the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It typically occurs 6–10 days after fertilization. During implantation, the embryo receives nutrition from the maternal tissue and begins forming the placenta. Successful implantation is essential for the continuation of pregnancy.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)