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Multiple Choice
In mammals, how does the mother deliver nutrients and oxygen to the developing embryo during early pregnancy?
A
Via the yolk sac, which provides all nutrients and oxygen
B
Through the placenta, which facilitates exchange between maternal and embryonic blood
C
Through specialized maternal glands that secrete nutrients into the uterus
D
By direct diffusion through the embryonic skin
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of the placenta in mammals. The placenta is a specialized organ that forms during pregnancy and facilitates the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the mother and the developing embryo.
Step 2: Recognize that the placenta connects the maternal blood supply to the embryonic blood supply through structures like the umbilical cord. This allows for efficient transport of essential substances.
Step 3: Compare the placenta's function to other options provided in the question. For example, the yolk sac is more prominent in non-mammalian species like birds and reptiles, and direct diffusion through embryonic skin is not a viable mechanism in mammals.
Step 4: Note that specialized maternal glands secreting nutrients into the uterus is not the primary method of nutrient delivery in mammals. The placenta is the key structure for this purpose.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Through the placenta, which facilitates exchange between maternal and embryonic blood,' as it accurately describes the mechanism of nutrient and oxygen delivery in mammals during early pregnancy.