Define cleavage in terms of embryonic development. Describe how the cytoplasm changes during this process and why it is important.
a) Cleavage is the division of cells; the cytoplasm increases in density; it provides nutrients to the developing embryo
b) Cleavage is the fusion of cells; the cytoplasm decreases in density; it forms the blastocyst
c) Cleavage is the rearrangement of cells; the cytoplasm forms a gradient; it establishes body axes
d) Cleavage is the differentiation of cells; the cytoplasm forms vesicles; it initiates organogenesis