The process involved in the development of a mature ovum is called
A. Fertilization
B. Oogenesis
C. Gametogenesis
D. Spermatogenesis
Explanation
The process involved in the development of a mature ovum is called oogenesis.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
- Oogenesis occurs in the ovaries of females.
- It starts with oogonia (the diploid germ cells) which divide by mitosis during fetal development.
- These oogonia become primary oocytes, which enter meiosis I but get arrested in prophase I until puberty.
- After puberty, during each menstrual cycle, some primary oocytes resume meiosis I to form a secondary oocyte and a polar body.
- The secondary oocyte begins meiosis II but is arrested at metaphase II until fertilization.
- If fertilization occurs, meiosis II completes, forming a mature ovum and another polar body.
So, the overall term for this entire process—from oogonia to mature ovum—is oogenesis.
Other Option Details
Here’s a clear description of each of the options you listed:
A. Fertilization
- Fertilization is the process where a male gamete (sperm) fuses with a female gamete (ovum) to form a zygote.
- It marks the beginning of a new organism and restores the diploid number of chromosomes.
- This occurs in the fallopian tube in humans.
B. Oogenesis
- Oogenesis is the process by which a mature ovum (egg) is formed from an oogonium in the ovary.
- It involves stages such as oogonium → primary oocyte → secondary oocyte → ovum.
- It starts before birth, pauses at prophase I, resumes at puberty, and completes only after fertilization.
C. Gametogenesis
- Gametogenesis is the general term for the formation of gametes (sex cells) in both males and females.
- It includes spermatogenesis (formation of sperm) and oogenesis (formation of ovum).
- The purpose is to produce haploid cells for sexual reproduction.
D. Spermatogenesis
- Spermatogenesis is the process by which spermatozoa (male gametes) are produced in the testes.
- It starts at puberty and continues throughout life.
- It involves spermatogonia → primary spermatocyte → secondary spermatocyte → spermatid → spermatozoa.
In short:
- Gametogenesis = general term for gamete formation.
- Oogenesis = female gamete formation.
- Spermatogenesis = male gamete formation.
- Fertilization = fusion of male and female gametes.