Final answer:
Gametogenesis is the process of forming gametes through meiosis, with spermatogenesis in males and oogenesis in females. It is false that gametogenesis involves the fusion of gametes; that process is called fertilization, resulting in a zygote. Option number b is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Gametogenesis
The statement 'Gametogenesis is the process by which gametes fuse to produce a new individual' is false. Gametogenesis is actually the process through which gametes are formed, not the fusion of these cells. The confusion may arise from the close relationship between gametogenesis and fertilization. Gametogenesis involves the creation of gametes through meiosis, a type of cell division. In males, this process is called spermatogenesis, which results in the formation of sperm cells. In females, it's called oogenesis, leading to the creation of ovum or egg cells.
Contrarily, fertilization is the fusion of an egg and a sperm to form a zygote, which is indeed the first step in the development of a new individual. During fertilization, each gamete contributes one set of chromosomes, resulting in a diploid zygote with a complete set of chromosomes.
To clarify, spermatogenesis results in the formation of four sperm cells from each precursor cell, whereas oogenesis results in one mature egg from each precursor cell, with the other three cells forming polar bodies and eventually degrading. Therefore, the production and maturation of gametes are crucial steps in sexual reproduction but are distinct from the process of zygote formation through fertilization.