Fertilatsioon
Fertilatsioon is a term that refers to the process of fertilization, specifically in the context of reproduction. It is the fusion of male and female gametes, such as sperm and egg cells, to form a zygote. This union is a crucial step in sexual reproduction, initiating the development of a new organism. The process typically involves the penetration of the egg by the sperm, followed by the merging of their genetic material. This genetic contribution from both parents is what allows for the inheritance of traits. In many species, fertilization can occur either internally within the body of one parent or externally in the environment. The success of fertilization depends on various factors, including the availability of viable gametes, suitable environmental conditions, and the proper timing of reproductive cycles. Once fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote undergoes a series of cell divisions and developmental changes, eventually leading to the formation of an embryo. The term fertilatsioon, therefore, encapsulates the fundamental biological event that sets the stage for the continuation of a species through sexual reproduction.