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Chapter 2: Problem 14

The germinal stage (fertilization to two weeks) is marked by rapid cell division and specialization, and the attachment of the zygote to the wall of the uterus. During the embryonic stage (two to eight weeks), the ectoderm, the mesoderm, and the endoderm begin to grow and specialize. The fetal stage (eight weeks to birth) is characterized by a rapid increase in complexity and differentiation of the organs. The fetus becomes active, and most of its systems become operational.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Human fetal development involves three stages. The germinal stage involves rapid cell division and starts when fertilization occurs and continues to two weeks. The embryonic stage starts at two weeks to eight weeks and involves the growth and specialization of the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. The fetal stage starts from eight weeks to birth and involves increased complexity and differentiation of the organs, with most systems becoming operational and the fetus becoming active.

Step by step solution

01

Germinal Stage

The germinal stage begins at fertilization and lasts two weeks. It involves rapid cell division, differentiation, and attachment of the zygote to the uterine wall. These processes set the foundation for all future development.
02

Embryonic Stage

The embryonic stage starts at week two and lasts until week eight. Here, the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm - the three germ layers - begin to grow and specialize. Each layer gives rise to specific structures in the body. For instance, the ectoderm forms the nervous system and skin, the endoderm forms the gut and associated structures, and the mesoderm forms the muscle, skeleton, circulatory system, and other organs.
03

Fetal Stage

The final stage is the fetal stage. It begins at the end of week eight and lasts until birth. The fetus shows a rapid increase in complexity and differentiation of the organs, and most systems of the fetus become operational during this stage. The fetus also starts to engage in activities such as kicking and swallowing.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

When an ovum and sperm meet at the moment of fertilization, the ovum provides an \(X\) chromosome, while the sperm provides either an \(X\) or a Y chromosome. If the sperm contributes its \(\mathrm{X}\) chromosome, the child will have an XX pairing and will be a girl. If the sperm contributes a Y chromosome, the result will be an XY pairing-a boy.
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