The main function of the placenta is to a) direct the blood flow to the pelvis. b) allow the mixing of maternal and fetal blood. c) surround the embryo and protect it from shock. d) allow the fetus to receive nutrients and oxygen.

fertilization, pictured in figure 24.23a is the process in which gametes (an egg and sperm) fuse to form a zygote. the egg and sperm each contain one set of chromosomes. to ensure that the offspring has only one complete diploid set of chromosomes, only one sperm must fuse with one egg. in mammals, the egg is protected by a layer of extracellular matrix consisting mainly of glycoproteins called the zona pellucida. when a sperm binds to the zona pellucida, a series of biochemical events, called the acrosomal reactions, take place. in placental mammals, the acrosome contains digestive enzymes that initiate the degradation of the glycoprotein matrix protecting the egg and allowing the sperm plasma membrane to fuse with the egg plasma membrane, as illustrated in figure 24.23b. the fusion of these two membranes creates an opening through which the sperm nucleus is transferred into the ovum. the nuclear membranes of the egg and sperm break down and the two haploid genomes condense to form a diploid genome.

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earthquakes in florida are rare because the state is not located near any tectonic plates. in fact, florida is tied for first place as having the fewest earthquakes of any state. much of florida is limestone and seafloor materials that is not conducive to earthquakes.

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