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Multiple Choice
It is impossible for sperm to be functional (able to fertilize the egg) until after ________.
A
they fuse with the egg membrane
B
they complete meiosis II
C
they undergo capacitation
D
they are released from the epididymis
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of sperm capacitation: Capacitation is a biochemical process that sperm undergo after being released into the female reproductive tract. It involves changes in the sperm's membrane and motility, enabling it to penetrate and fertilize the egg.
Recognize that capacitation is essential for sperm functionality: Without capacitation, sperm cannot effectively bind to the zona pellucida (the outer layer of the egg) or undergo the acrosome reaction, which is necessary for fertilization.
Eliminate incorrect options: Sperm do not become functional immediately after being released from the epididymis, as they still require capacitation. Similarly, sperm do not complete meiosis II; meiosis is completed during spermatogenesis before sperm are released. Fusion with the egg membrane occurs after fertilization, not before.
Focus on the correct answer: Capacitation is the process that prepares sperm for fertilization, making it the correct choice in this context.
Summarize the importance of capacitation: Capacitation is a critical step in the reproductive process, ensuring that sperm are capable of fertilizing the egg by undergoing necessary physiological changes.