Final answer:
Cleavage is the process of rapid cell division in embryonic development, which leads to the formation of a blastula. During cleavage, the cells divide without an increase in size, forming multiple smaller cells called blastomeres.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cleavage is a process in embryonic development in which the zygote undergoes rapid cell division to form a blastula. During cleavage, the cells divide without an increase in size, resulting in multiple smaller cells called blastomeres. These blastomeres then arrange themselves to form a hollow ball of cells called a blastula.