The Process That Makes It Possible for Sperm to Penetrate

Question

The process that makes it possible for sperm to penetrate the egg is called __________.
A) sperm migration
B) capacitation
C) the cortical reaction
D) morulation
E) cleavage

Accepted Answer

Capacitation is the process that makes the sperm able to penetrate and fertilize the egg. It involves changes in the sperm cell membrane that allow it to bind and penetrate the egg. Sperm migration refers to the movement of sperm through the female reproductive tract towards the egg. The cortical reaction, morulation, and cleavage are all stages of embryonic development that occur after fertilization has taken place.