Final answer:
The correct term for the female gamete just before fertilization is an ovum, which upon fertilization becomes a zygote, and then develops into a blastocyst before implantation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for the female gamete just before it is fertilized is known as an ovum. During fertilization, a mature oocyte (egg) completes meiosis II to become an ovum. The process of fertilization is characterized by the fusion of a sperm cell with the ovum, subsequently transforming it into a zygote. Following successful fertilization, the zygote begins a series of cleavages as it travels towards the uterus, where it eventually forms into a blastocyst before implanting itself in the uterine wall, marking the commencement of embryonic development.
It is important to note that fertilization leads to the formation of a diploid zygote and marks the beginning of pregnancy. This zygote contains the genetic information necessary for the development of a new individual. After implantation, the zygote develops into a blastocyst, which further develops into an embryo. The term 'embryo' is used to describe the early stages of development post-implantation until about the eighth week, after which the term 'fetus' is used until birth.