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Sexual Reproduction

Sexual reproduction is the formation of a new individual by the fusion of male and female gametes from two parents.

In one line: Two gametes join, one new start.

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Understand it

In sexual reproduction, two gametes combine to form a zygote. The offspring receive characteristics from both parents, so they show variation. In flowering plants and humans, this process is important for continuity of life and genetic diversity.

Example

In humans, the sperm fuses with the ovum to form a zygote.

Rule to remember

Sexual reproduction involves gamete formation, fusion, and zygote formation.

See it worked out

Follow the example line by line, then use the same method on new questions.

Worked example

  1. 1In a flowering plant, pollen carries male gametes.
  2. 2After pollination and fertilisation, the zygote forms and later develops into a seed and then a new plant.

Method you can reuse

  1. 1Check whether two parents are involved.
  2. 2Look for mention of gametes.
  3. 3See whether the gametes fuse to form a zygote.
  4. 4Classify the process as sexual reproduction.

Check yourself

Answer the question in your head before opening the answer.

Try it yourself

A new organism forms after a male gamete fuses with a female gamete. Which type of reproduction is this?

Think first, then show answer
This is sexual reproduction because the male and female gametes fuse to form a zygote, which develops into a new organism.

Common wrong answer

A common wrong answer is asexual reproduction, because students see only the final offspring and miss the fusion of gametes.

Don't mix this up

Students sometimes say sexual reproduction always means direct birth of a baby or seed. The key idea is fusion of gametes, not the final form alone.

Exam tip

When you see two parents, gametes, fertilisation, or zygote, connect them to sexual reproduction.

Write it in the exam

Each point is worth about one mark. Write point 1 for a 1-mark question and keep adding points as the marks go up.

How CBSE asks it

Questions may ask you to define sexual reproduction, compare it with asexual reproduction, or explain why it creates variation.
  1. 1

    Enough for 1 mark

    Sexual reproduction is the formation of a new individual by the fusion of male and female gametes from two parents.

  2. 2

    Add for 2 marks

    Example: In humans, the sperm fuses with the ovum to form a zygote.

  3. 3

    Add for 3 marks

    In sexual reproduction, two gametes combine to form a zygote.

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