egg
Definition
An egg is a reproductive body produced by an animal that contains an embryo. The embryo is a tiny, developing organism that will eventually grow into a new animal. The egg is usually surrounded by a hard shell that protects the embryo.
Eggs are produced by a wide variety of animals, including birds, reptiles, fish, insects, and even some mammals. The shape and size of eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of animal that produces them. For example, bird eggs are typically oval-shaped and have a hard shell, while fish eggs are often spherical and have a soft, jelly-like coating.
The development of an embryo inside an egg is a complex process that is controlled by a number of factors, including the temperature of the environment, the amount of oxygen available, and the nutrients provided by the yolk. Once the embryo has developed to a certain point, it hatches and emerges from the egg as a new animal.
Eggs are an important source of food for many animals, including humans. They are also a valuable source of nutrients, including protein, fat, and vitamins.
The structure of an egg is adapted to protect the embryo and to provide it with the nutrients it needs to develop. The shell is made of a hard, calcite-rich material that protects the embryo from damage. The yolk is a high-energy food source that provides the embryo with the nutrients it needs to grow. The white of the egg is a watery substance that provides the embryo with water and other nutrients.
The development of an embryo inside an egg is a complex process that is controlled by a number of factors. The temperature of the environment is one of the most important factors. If the temperature is too low, the embryo will not develop properly. If the temperature is too high, the embryo will die.
The amount of oxygen available is also an important factor. If there is not enough oxygen, the embryo will not be able to breathe and will die. The nutrients provided by the yolk are also important. If the yolk does not contain enough nutrients, the embryo will not be able to develop properly.
The development of an embryo inside an egg takes a certain amount of time. This time period varies depending on the species of animal that produces the egg. For example, chicken eggs typically hatch after 21 days, while turtle eggs can take up to 120 days to hatch.
Once the embryo has developed to a certain point, it hatches and emerges from the egg as a new animal. The hatching process is usually triggered by a change in temperature or humidity. In some cases, the embryo may break the shell itself.
The hatching of an egg is a significant event in the life of an animal. It marks the beginning of a new life and the start of a new journey.
How can the word be used?
The bird's nest was full of eggs.
Different forms of the word
Noun: egg, ovum, oosphere, spawn.
Adjective: egg-shaped, ovoid, oviform.
Verb: to egg on, egg someone on.
Adverb: eggily, ovoidly, oviformly.
The word "egg" can be used in a number of ways, depending on the context. Here are a few examples:
As a noun:
- A hard-shelled reproductive body produced by birds, reptiles, fish, amphibians, and some insects.
- The female reproductive cell.
- The source of a new life.
As an adjective:
- Having the shape of an egg.
- Relating to eggs.
- Resembling an egg.
Etymology
The word "egg" comes from the Old English word æg, which also means "egg". The Old English word æg is cognate with the German word "Ei" and the Dutch word "ei".
Question
What do you know about eggs?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the structure and function of an egg in the context of reproduction and embryonic development. Describe the components of an egg and their roles in supporting the growth and nourishment of the developing embryo. Provide examples of different types of eggs found in the animal kingdom and how the structure of an egg correlates with the reproductive strategies of various species.
Answer:
An egg is a crucial structure in the process of reproduction and embryonic development in many animals. It is composed of several layers, including the shell, membranes, and yolk, which contain essential nutrients for the growing embryo.
The shell provides protection and prevents the entry of pathogens, while the membranes support the exchange of gases for respiration. The yolk, rich in proteins and fats, serves as the primary source of nourishment for the developing embryo.
Eggs can vary greatly in size, shape, and structure, depending on the species' reproductive strategies. Fish and amphibians often lay small, gelatinous eggs in water, whereas birds lay hard-shelled eggs in nests on land. Some reptiles, like turtles, bury their eggs in the sand.
Understanding the structure and function of eggs is vital for comprehending the diversity of reproductive strategies across the animal kingdom and the critical role that eggs play in the continuation of various species.