Final answer:
The embryo is nourished by the placenta, which is a critical organ for transferring nutrients and oxygen from the mother to the embryo, and also for the removal of wastes. The health of the embryo is highly dependent on the mother's diet and avoidance of harmful substances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The embryo develops within the mother's uterus and is nourished by the placenta. The placenta is a critical circulatory organ that develops jointly from the embryonic tissues and uterine wall structures. It facilitates the transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the mother's blood to the developing embryo and fetus, and it allows waste materials to be carried away from the fetus back to the mother's body to be disposed of. The umbilical vein and arteries are part of this vital system, with the umbilical vein carrying oxygen-rich blood to the fetus and the umbilical arteries carrying de-oxygenated blood back to the placenta.
It's important for the mother to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid harmful substances during pregnancy as these can affect the fetus through the placenta. Essential nutrients such as folic acid (vitamin B9), calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids should be present in greater amounts in the mother's diet to ensure proper growth and development of the embryo and fetus within the uterus.