Mature ovum contains: March 2013
## **Core Concept**
The mature ovum, or ovum after completing oogenesis, contains a haploid set of chromosomes and specific organelles essential for fertilization and early embryonic development. Understanding the composition of a mature ovum is crucial for knowledge of human reproduction.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, , indicates that the mature ovum contains one set of chromosomes (haploid), which is 23 chromosomes in humans. This haploid set is crucial because when the sperm fertilizes the ovum, the resulting zygote will have a diploid set of chromosomes (46 chromosomes), necessary for normal development. The mature ovum also contains **cytoplasm** and **organelles** like mitochondria, but the key distinguishing feature related to genetics and reproduction is its haploid nature.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** . This option suggests a diploid number of chromosomes, which is incorrect for a mature ovum. A diploid number (46 chromosomes in humans) is found in somatic cells, not in gametes like the mature ovum.
- **Option B:** . This option implies a triploid number of chromosomes, which is not viable for a human cell and certainly not for a mature ovum.
- **Option D:** . This option suggests a number of chromosomes that does not accurately represent the genetic content of a mature human ovum.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that both gametes (sperm and ovum) are haploid, each contributing half of the genetic material necessary for the development of a new individual. This is fundamental to sexual reproduction and genetics.
## **Correct Answer:** . 23 chromosomes.