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Multiple Choice
What stimulates the secondary oocyte to complete meiosis II?
A
Increase in estrogen levels
B
Release of luteinizing hormone (LH)
C
Fertilization by a sperm cell
D
Ovulation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of meiosis in oocytes: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells. In females, this process occurs in the ovaries and is crucial for sexual reproduction.
Recognize the stages of meiosis: Meiosis consists of two stages, meiosis I and meiosis II. The primary oocyte completes meiosis I to form a secondary oocyte and a polar body. The secondary oocyte is arrested in metaphase II until fertilization.
Identify the role of fertilization: Fertilization is the union of a sperm cell with the secondary oocyte. This event triggers the completion of meiosis II, resulting in the formation of a mature ovum and another polar body.
Distinguish between hormonal influences and fertilization: While hormones like estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH) play roles in ovulation and the initial stages of meiosis, the completion of meiosis II is specifically stimulated by the penetration of the sperm cell.
Conclude with the importance of fertilization: The entry of the sperm cell into the secondary oocyte is the key stimulus for the oocyte to complete meiosis II, ensuring the oocyte is ready for the fusion of genetic material from both parents.