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Multiple Choice
A sea urchin sperm penetrates the jelly coat of an egg and adheres to receptor proteins on the egg's surface as a result of __________.
A
cleavage
B
gastrulation
C
the cortical reaction
D
depolarization
E
the acrosomal reaction
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: The problem is about the process of fertilization in sea urchins, specifically the initial interaction between sperm and egg.
Identify the key term: The acrosomal reaction is a crucial step in fertilization where enzymes from the sperm's acrosome digest the egg's jelly coat, allowing the sperm to reach the egg's surface.
Recognize the role of receptor proteins: After the acrosomal reaction, the sperm adheres to receptor proteins on the egg's surface, facilitating the fusion of sperm and egg membranes.
Differentiate from other processes: Cleavage, gastrulation, the cortical reaction, and depolarization are distinct processes occurring at different stages of development or fertilization.
Conclude the correct process: The acrosomal reaction is responsible for the sperm penetrating the jelly coat and adhering to the egg's surface, leading to successful fertilization.