Final answer:
Somites are segments of mesoderm tissue that form on either side of the notochord in vertebrate embryonic development. The sclerotome, which is part of the somite, will give rise to the bones and cartilages of the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of somite formation is a crucial step in vertebrate embryonic development. Somites are segments of mesoderm tissue that form on either side of the notochord in the early embryo. As the somites enlarge, they split into several parts, with the most medial part called a sclerotome. The sclerotome will eventually give rise to the bones, cartilages, and connective tissues of the body.