Fertilization is the process in sexual reproduction where a male gamete (sperm) fuses with a female gamete (egg) to form a zygote. This fusion typically occurs in the female reproductive system, such as the fallopian tubes in humans.
Once fertilization happens, the zygote undergoes rapid cell division, eventually developing into an embryo. Fertilization combines genetic material from both parents, ensuring genetic diversity in offspring.
It marks the beginning of embryonic development, ultimately leading to the formation of a new organism.
