What is a zygote?

Options

A. Fertilized egg
B. Female gamete
C. Male gamete
D. Menstrual flow

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Definition of Zygote**: A zygote is defined as a fertilized egg. It is the initial cell formed when a sperm cell from the male fuses with an ovum (egg) from the female.

2. **Formation of Zygote**: The zygote is formed through a process called fertilization, which involves the fusion of the male gamete (sperm) and the female gamete (ovum).

3. **Components of Zygote**: The male gamete is the sperm, and the female gamete is the ovum. When these two gametes combine, they create a zygote, which contains genetic material from both parents.

4. **Clarification of Incorrect Options**:
- The female gamete is specifically the ovum, so stating that a zygote is a female gamete is incorrect.
- The male gamete is specifically the sperm, so stating that a zygote is a male gamete is also incorrect.
- Menstrual flow refers to the shedding of the uterine lining and is unrelated to the definition of a zygote.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question "What is a zygote?" is that it is a fertilized egg resulting from the fusion of male and female gametes.

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