Final Answer:
The secondary oocyte's fate after ovulation is fertilization by sperm. During ovulation, the mature follicle ruptures, releasing the secondary oocyte into the fallopian tube. If sperm is present in the fallopian tube and successfully fertilizes the secondary oocyte, it forms a zygote, initiating the process of embryonic development. Therefore, the correct answer is c) It is fertilized by sperm.
Step-by-step explanation:
After ovulation, the secondary oocyte is released from the mature ovarian follicle into the fallopian tube. This is a critical phase in the female reproductive cycle, and the fate of the secondary oocyte depends on whether it encounters sperm. If sperm is present in the fallopian tube and successfully fertilizes the secondary oocyte, it forms a diploid zygote. The union of sperm and egg restores the diploid number of chromosomes, resulting in the formation of a fertilized egg.
The fertilized egg, or zygote, then undergoes a series of divisions through mitosis, forming a blastocyst. This developing structure eventually implants into the uterine lining, leading to pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the secondary oocyte disintegrates, and the menstrual cycle continues. The process of fertilization is a crucial step in sexual reproduction, ensuring the continuation of the species by producing offspring with a unique combination of genetic material from both parents.
In summary, the fate of the newly released secondary oocyte after ovulation is contingent on fertilization by sperm. If fertilization occurs, it marks the beginning of embryonic development; otherwise, the secondary oocyte undergoes disintegration, and the reproductive cycle proceeds without conception. Therefore, the correct answer is c) It is fertilized by sperm.