Zygote
A zygote is the first stage of a new organism when it is formed by the union of two gametes. In human reproduction, the zygote is formed when a sperm fertilizes an egg.
Formation of a Zygote
During sexual reproduction, a sperm cell from the father and an egg cell from the mother fuse together to form a zygote. This process is called fertilization and typically occurs in the fallopian tubes of the female reproductive system.
Characteristics of a Zygote
Once fertilization takes place, the zygote contains the full set of genetic material, half from the mother and half from the father. It is the beginning of a new organism and has the potential to develop into a mature organism through the process of cell division and growth.
Development of the Zygote
After fertilization, the zygote begins to divide through a process called cleavage, forming a cluster of cells known as a blastocyst. The blastocyst then implants itself into the wall of the uterus, where it continues to develop into an embryo and eventually a fetus.
Study Guide Questions
- What is a zygote?
- How is a zygote formed?
- What is the genetic composition of a zygote?
- What happens to the zygote after fertilization?
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