fertilisation
Definition
Fertilisation is the process of the union of a sperm cell and an egg cell to form a zygote. The zygote is a single cell that contains all the genetic information needed to create a new organism.
In animals, fertilisation usually happens inside the female's body. In humans, fertilisation happens in the fallopian tubes. The sperm cells travel from the penis into the vagina, and then up the fallopian tubes. If a sperm cell fertilises an egg cell, the zygote will implant in the lining of the uterus and begin to grow into a baby.
There are two main types of fertilisation: internal fertilisation and external fertilisation. In internal fertilisation, the sperm cells fertilise the egg cells inside the female's body. This is the most common type of fertilisation in animals. In external fertilisation, the sperm cells fertilise the egg cells outside the female's body. This type of fertilisation is more common in fish and amphibians.
How can the word be used?
The fertilization of the egg by the sperm resulted in conception.
Different forms of the word
Noun: fertilisation, fecundation, impregnation.
Adjective: fertilising.
Verb: to fertilise, fecundate, impregnate.
Etymology
The word "fertilisation" is derived from the Latin word "fertilis", which means "fruitful" or "productive". The suffix "-isation" is a French-derived suffix that means "the act of making". So, "fertilisation" literally means "the act of making something fruitful or productive".
Question
What does fertilisation mean?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the process of fertilisation in sexual reproduction and its significance in the formation of offspring. Describe the key steps involved in fertilisation and the fusion of gametes. Provide real-life examples of fertilisation in plants and animals.
Answer:
Fertilisation is a crucial process in sexual reproduction, where male and female gametes fuse to form a zygote, the first cell of a new individual. During sexual intercourse in humans, sperm cells are ejaculated into the female reproductive tract. One sperm cell successfully penetrates the egg cell (ovum) in the fallopian tube, resulting in fertilisation.
In plants, fertilisation occurs when pollen grains from the male reproductive organ (anther) reach the female reproductive organ (stigma) of the same species. The pollen tube grows from the stigma to the ovary, delivering male gametes to the ovule, where fertilisation takes place.
For instance, in humans, fertilisation occurs in the fallopian tube, leading to the formation of a zygote. In plants, the pollen tube facilitates the transfer of male gametes to the ovule in the ovary.
Overall, fertilisation is a critical step in sexual reproduction, allowing the fusion of gametes to produce offspring and ensure the continuity of species.