What is the result of fertilization in sexual reproduction?

Fertilization in sexual reproduction results in the formation of a zygote, which is a single cell created when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell. This zygote contains genetic material from both parents, combining their DNA to establish the foundation for a new organism. As development progresses, the zygote undergoes numerous cell divisions and differentiations, ultimately forming a complete organism. This process highlights the critical role of fertilization in initiating the developmental journey of a new life form.

The other options describe aspects that do not accurately represent the immediate outcome of fertilization. For example, the notion of a new organism with genetic makeup from one parent overlooks the essential role of merging genetic contributions from both parents. The immediate birth of an organism implies a much longer developmental process than what occurs right after fertilization. Lastly, the formation of duplicate cells with the same genetic information pertains more to asexual reproduction or cell division rather than the unique genetic combination that defines the zygote formed through fertilization.