The Formation of the Fertilization Membrane Requires an Increase in the Availability

Question

The formation of the fertilization membrane requires an increase in the availability of
A) bicarbonate ions.
B) calcium ions.
C) hydrogen ions.
D) potassium ions.
E) sodium ions.

Accepted Answer

The fertilization membrane forms when enzymes and calcium ions are released by the cortical granules of the egg. The calcium ions cause a cortical reaction which leads to the formation of the fertilization membrane. Therefore, an increase in the availability of calcium ions is required for the formation of the fertilization membrane.