Prior to the joining (fusion)of the nuclei of the sperm and egg to form a zygote, each nucleus is referred to as a
A)prenucelus.
B)mononucleus.
C)pronucleus.
D)gametocyte.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct term for the nuclei of the sperm and egg prior to fusion is “pronucleus”. This term is used to distinguish the still-separate genetic material before it is combined to form a zygote. A “gametocyte” is a precursor cell that divides to form gametes such as sperm or eggs, so it would not be an appropriate term for the nuclei of mature gametes. “Prenucleus” is not a commonly used term in biology, and “mononucleus” typically refers to a cell with a single nucleus, which would not be applicable to the sperm or egg nuclei in this context.

Prior to the Joining (Fusion)of the Nuclei of the Sperm