Final answer:
The baby's cord should be dry and fall off within about three weeks of birth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The umbilical cord is a vital structure that forms during early pregnancy, connecting the developing fetus to the placenta. It plays a crucial role in providing essential nutrients, oxygen, and removing waste products from the developing fetus.
The baby's cord should be dry and fall off within about three weeks of birth. After birth, the umbilical cord is cut, leaving a stub that will dry out, shrivel, darken, and eventually fall off. This is a natural process and forms the navel once it fully heals.