Question

The corpus luteum is A. the disintegrated ovum, when fertilization fails to occur. B. the product of ovum and sperm fertilization. C. the follicle before ovulation occurs. D. the follicle following ovulation.

Short answer

D. the follicle following ovulation.

Step-by-step solution

Define the Corpus Luteum

The corpus luteum is a structure that forms in the ovary after an egg has been released during ovulation.

Eliminate Incorrect Options

Review the options and eliminate those that do not fit the definition of the corpus luteum.Option A: Incorrect, because the disintegrated ovum is not related to the formation of the corpus luteum.Option B: Incorrect, because the product of ovum and sperm fertilization is a zygote, not the corpus luteum.Option C: Incorrect, because the follicle before ovulation is called a Graafian follicle, not the corpus luteum.

Confirm the Correct Option

Option D: Correct, as the corpus luteum is the name of the follicle after ovulation has occurred.

Key concepts

Ovulation

Ovulation is a key process in the female reproductive cycle. It occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary and is available for fertilization by sperm. Typically, ovulation happens around the middle of the menstrual cycle, roughly 14 days before the next period is due.

• Hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) rise, triggering ovulation.
• The egg travels through the fallopian tube toward the uterus.
• If fertilization occurs, the egg can implant in the uterine lining and develop into an embryo.

Understanding ovulation is essential, as it plays a critical role in fertility and conception.

Ovary

The ovary is a crucial organ in the female reproductive system. Women have two ovaries, each located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries have two main functions:

• Producing eggs (ova) for fertilization
• Secreting hormones like estrogen and progesterone

Each month, one of the ovaries releases a mature egg during ovulation.
The ovaries are also responsible for forming the corpus luteum after an egg is released. The corpus luteum then produces hormones necessary for maintaining the uterine lining, preparing it for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

Graafian Follicle

The Graafian follicle is an important structure within the ovary. It is the stage where the follicle has matured and is ready for ovulation.

Key features of the Graafian follicle include:

• It is filled with fluid and surrounds the developing egg.
• The growth of this follicle is stimulated by hormones like FSH.
• At the time of ovulation, the Graafian follicle ruptures to release the mature egg.

After the release of the egg, the remaining structure transforms into the corpus luteum.
This transition is crucial for producing the hormones needed to support early pregnancy, should fertilization occur.

Fertilization

Fertilization is the process where a sperm cell unites with an egg (ovum) to form a zygote. This is a vital step in the creation of new life.

Main steps in fertilization:

• The sperm travels through the female reproductive system to reach the egg, usually in the fallopian tube.
• Upon reaching the egg, one sperm penetrates the outer layers to fuse with it.
• Once fertilized, the egg becomes a zygote, which starts dividing and eventually implants in the uterine lining.

Successful fertilization requires many biological processes and precise timing. It's the starting point for pregnancy and human development.