A zygote is the first stage in the development of a new organism. A zygote is formed when a sperm cell from the father joins with an egg cell from the mother. This process is called fertilization. The zygote is a single cell that contains all the genetic information (DNA) needed to create a new living being.
Key points about a zygote:
1. It’s the earliest stage of development for a living organism.
2. It’s formed by the union of two gametes (sperm and egg).
3. It contains the combined genetic material from both parents.
4. In humans, the zygote will develop into an embryo and eventually a baby.
5. The zygote begins to divide rapidly soon after it’s formed.
This single cell is the starting point for all the different cells that will eventually make up the entire body of the new organism.