Sperm cannot fertilize an egg unless they have been in the female reproductive tract for several hours.This enhanced ability of the sperm to fertilize the ovum is called capacitation.In vitro studies indicate that the sperm can fertilize the ovum if they are first washed before being introduced to the ovum.These observations suggest that
A) capacitation involves the removal of some inhibiting substance(s) from the sperm.
B) capacitation is temperature-dependent.
C) in capacitation, secretions of the female reproductive tract are taken up by the sperm.
D) pH is an important factor in the process of capacitation.
E) only sperm that come into contact with vaginal secretions are capable of fertilizing an ovum.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Capacitation involves the removal of inhibitors from the sperm, allowing them to become more motile and capable of fertilizing an egg. This has been demonstrated in in vitro studies where washing the sperm prior to fertilization increases their ability to fertilize the egg.

Sperm Cannot Fertilize an Egg Unless They Have Been in the Female