Identical twin
Identical Twin
Identical twins (pronunciation: /aɪˈdɛntɪkəl twɪnz/), also known as monozygotic twins, are a type of twin that originates from a single fertilization of a single egg cell by a single sperm cell. This results in the formation of a single zygote, which then splits into two separate embryos.
Etymology
The term "identical twin" is derived from the fact that these twins are genetically identical. The term "monozygotic" is derived from the Greek words "monos" (meaning "single") and "zygotos" (meaning "yoked", as in yoked together).
Related Terms
- Twin: One of two offspring produced in the same pregnancy.
- Fraternal twin: Also known as dizygotic twins, are twins that develop from two different egg cells fertilized by two different sperm cells.
- Zygote: The cell formed by the union of two gametes; the fertilized egg cell before it begins cell division.
- Embryo: An early stage of development in multicellular organisms.
- Fertilization: The process of combining the male gamete, or sperm, with the female gamete, or egg.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Identical twin
- Wikipedia's article - Identical twin
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