Read the given passage and answer the following questions:

Spermatogenesis results in the formation of sperms that are transported by the male sex accessory ducts. A normal human sperm is composed of a head, neck, a middle piece and tail. The process of formation of mature female gametes is called oogenesis. The reproductive cycle of female primates is called menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycle starts only after attaining sexual maturation (puberty). During ovulation only one ovum is released per menstrual cycle. The cyclical changes in the ovary and the uterus during menstrual cycle are induced by changes in the levels of pituitary and ovarian hormones. After coitus, sperms are transported to the ampulla, where the sperm fertilises the ovum leading to formation of a diploid zygote. The presence of X or Y chromosome in the sperm determines the sex of the embryo. The zygote undergoes repeated mitotic division to form a blastocyst, which is implanted in the uterus resulting in pregnancy. After nine months of pregnancy, the fully developed foetus is ready for delivery. The process of childbirth is called parturition which is induced by a complex neuroendocrine mechanism involving cortisol, estrogens and oxytocin. Mammary glands differentiate during pregnancy and secrete milk after child-birth. The new-born baby is fed milk by the mother (lactation) during the initial few months of growth.

Where does fertilization of the ovum by sperm occur in the female reproductive system?

Fallopian tube (ampulla)

The correct answer is Option (2) –Fallopian tube (ampulla)

Fertilization of the ovum by sperm occurs in the fallopian tube (ampulla). The ampulla is the widest part of the fallopian tube and is the most common site where the sperm meets and fertilizes the ovum after ovulation.

• Uterus: The fertilized egg (zygote) implants here for further development, but fertilization does not occur in the uterus.

• Cervix: This is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina; it serves as a passageway for sperm but is not where fertilization occurs.

• Vagina: This is the external part of the female reproductive system where sperm is deposited during intercourse, but fertilization does not occur here either.

Thus, the ampulla of the fallopian tube is where the union of sperm and egg typically takes place.