Developing structures generally are most vulnerable to damage from environmental factors during the ____ of prenatal development.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The embryonic stage of prenatal development (weeks 2-8) is when the major structures and organs of the body begin to form. During this time, the developing embryo is highly vulnerable to damage from environmental factors such as teratogens, which can cause birth defects or other developmental disorders. The germinal stage (first two weeks) is when the fertilized egg implants in the uterus and begins to divide. The foetal stage (week 9 until birth) is a time of growth and refinement of existing structures rather than major formation of new ones. The last two months is a vague time frame that does not accurately describe a specific stage of development.

Developing Structures Generally Are Most Vulnerable to Damage from Environmental