Final answer:
The statement that polar bodies can participate in fertilization with sperm is not true. In oogenesis, polar bodies are reabsorbed and do not engage in fertilization. Spermatogenesis results in mature sperm cells with locomotion for fertilization, while oogenesis yields one viable ovum that can form a zygote upon fertilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the given statements about gamete formation in mammals, the one that is NOT true is C. The polar bodies formed during meiosis in the female can participate in fertilization with sperm. During oogenesis, the unequal division of cytoplasm results in the creation of one large ovum and smaller polar bodies. These polar bodies do not participate in fertilization and are eventually broken down and reabsorbed by the body.
In contrast, spermatogenesis results in four haploid spermatids from a primary spermatocyte, each going on to form a mature sperm cell capable of fertilization. The mature sperm cells are characterized by a compact head and a flagellum providing locomotion, which is essential for reaching and fertilizing the ovum.
When fertilization does occur, the secondary oocyte completes meiosis II, giving rise to a viable ovum and a second polar body, which also does not participate in fertilization. The fusion of sperm and the mature ovum forms a zygote with the necessary genetic material to develop into a new organism.