Egg Cell (Ovum) Adaptations - Biology
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Summary
This document explains the structure and function of an egg cell (ovum) and its adaptations in the human reproductive system. It highlights the size difference between egg cells and other cells in the body, and the crucial role the ovum plays in fertilization.
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**The Egg Cell (Ovum)** The human egg is a giant compared to other cells in the body. It has a diameter of approximately 100 microns, or roughly the thickness of a strand of hair. No other cell in the body is anywhere near that big. An egg cell supplies half the genes for the baby-to-be, as well a...
**The Egg Cell (Ovum)** The human egg is a giant compared to other cells in the body. It has a diameter of approximately 100 microns, or roughly the thickness of a strand of hair. No other cell in the body is anywhere near that big. An egg cell supplies half the genes for the baby-to-be, as well as most of the cytoplasm and organelles for the fertilized egg. On average, women ovulate about 400 - 500 eggs in her lifetime. More sperm cells are released during a single ejaculation than a woman produces her entire life! Young women have plenty of healthy eggs. In fact, about 90% of the eggs of a 21-year old are viable, but only about 10% of the eggs of a 41-year old might be viable. While a million of sperm may try to fertilize the egg, the egg ensures that once one sperm gets inside, no others are allowed in. *Source:* https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/human-eggs-9-fascinating-facts/
