Final answer:
Fertilization results in the formation of a zygote, which undergoes several mitotic divisions and implants in the uterus, leading to pregnancy. If not fertilized, the egg degrades and may be shed during menstruation.
Step-by-step explanation:
As a result of fertilization of an egg and sperm, a) formation of a zygote occurs. The zygote undergoes many cell divisions before it can implant in the lining of the uterus, a process known as implantation. Fertilization typically takes place in a Fallopian tube when a haploid sperm successfully enters a haploid egg, resulting in this single diploid cell—the zygote—which then begins a process known as cleavage as it travels down the Fallopian tube towards the uterus. During cleavage, the zygote undergoes mitotic cell divisions to form a morula and eventually a blastocyst. The blastocyst is the stage that implants into the uterine wall to begin gestation. Implantation occurs when the developing blastocyst attaches itself to the side of the uterus.
If the oocyte is not fertilized, it degrades and may be shed during the next menstrual cycle. Conversely, a successfully fertilized egg will divide and travel to the uterus for implantation. The intricate balance of hormones, including human beta-chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), supports the process of implantation and the early stages of pregnancy.Fertilization occurs when a sperm and egg come together to form a zygote. The zygote then undergoes many cell divisions before it implants in the lining of the uterus. This process leads to the development of an embryo and ultimately, pregnancy.