Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following events occurs during the follicular phase (first half) of the ovarian cycle?
A
Peak secretion of progesterone by the ovary
B
Maturation of ovarian follicles stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
C
Ovulation of the secondary oocyte
D
Formation of the corpus luteum
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the ovarian cycle: The ovarian cycle is divided into two main phases—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase occurs during the first half of the cycle and is characterized by the development and maturation of ovarian follicles.
Identify the role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): FSH is a hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. During the follicular phase, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which contain the oocytes (egg cells).
Clarify the timing of ovulation: Ovulation, the release of the secondary oocyte, occurs at the midpoint of the ovarian cycle, marking the transition from the follicular phase to the luteal phase. It does not occur during the follicular phase itself.
Explain the role of progesterone: Progesterone is primarily secreted by the corpus luteum during the luteal phase (second half of the cycle). Peak secretion of progesterone does not occur during the follicular phase.
Conclude with the correct event: The maturation of ovarian follicles, stimulated by FSH, is the key event that occurs during the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle.