Final answer:
The mature follicle in the ovarian cycle that is also known as the Graafian follicle is the one that reaches full maturity through the follicular phase and is stimulated by FSH. It eventually ovulates, releasing the secondary oocyte, and the empty Graafian follicle becomes the progesterone-producing corpus luteum in the luteal phase.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mature follicle in the ovarian cycle is known as the Graafian follicle. This follicle develops from a primordial follicle through stages of maturity, including the primary and secondary follicle stages. During the follicular phase, which lasts approximately 12 to 14 days in a typical 28-day menstrual cycle, the Graafian follicle is stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to grow and produce estrogen.
As the secondary follicles grow, they accumulate a thick fluid known as follicular fluid between the granulosa cells. This fluid collects into a large pool or antrum, at which point the follicle is referred to as a tertiary or antral follicle. However, one follicle becomes dominant, continues to grow, and eventually reaches maturity to become the Graafian follicle. Upon ovulation, the Graafian follicle releases the secondary oocyte surrounded by several layers of granulosa cells from the ovary into the uterine tube where fertilization can take place.
In the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, the empty Graafian follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone that is essential for maintaining pregnancy if fertilization occurs.