Fertilisation performs two functions. What are these?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Fertilization**: Fertilization is the biological process where a male gamete (sperm) and a female gamete (egg) fuse together. This union is essential for the initiation of a new organism.

2. **Formation of Zygote**: The fusion of the male and female gametes results in the formation of a zygote. This zygote is diploid, meaning it contains two sets of chromosomes—one set from each parent.

3. **First Function - Restoration of Diploidy**: The primary function of fertilization is to restore the diploid state in the zygote. Gametes are haploid (having only one set of chromosomes), and when they fuse, they create a diploid zygote, which is crucial for normal development.

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