Which of the following statements is true of prenatal development in humans?

• A. The zygote is formed during the fetal period.
• B. The fetal period is characterized by rapid growth and maturation of body systems.
• C. Organogenesis is completed during the fetal period.
• D. The embryonic period occurs after the fetal period.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the stages of prenatal development: Prenatal development in humans is divided into three main stages: the germinal stage, the embryonic stage, and the fetal stage.
2. Identify the characteristics of each stage: The germinal stage involves the formation of the zygote and lasts from fertilization to about two weeks. The embryonic stage follows, lasting from the third to the eighth week, during which organogenesis (formation of organs) occurs. The fetal stage begins at the ninth week and continues until birth, characterized by rapid growth and maturation of body systems.
3. Evaluate the statement about the zygote: The zygote is formed during the germinal stage, not the fetal period. Therefore, the statement 'The zygote is formed during the fetal period' is false.
4. Assess the statement about organogenesis: Organogenesis is completed during the embryonic period, not the fetal period. Therefore, the statement 'Organogenesis is completed during the fetal period' is false.
5. Determine the correct statement: The fetal period is indeed characterized by rapid growth and maturation of body systems, making this statement true. Additionally, the embryonic period occurs before the fetal period, not after, making the statement 'The embryonic period occurs after the fetal period' false.