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NEET UG 2026 » NEET UG Difference Between » Zygote and Foetus
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Zygote and Foetus

Many people believe that a zygote is in the early stages of pregnancy, while a foetus is in the later stages. It's not true. Let's explore the difference here.

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There are many myths and misconceptions about pregnancy and childbirth. One of the most common is the difference between a zygote and a foetus. Many people believe that a zygote is in the early stages of pregnancy, while a foetus is in the later stages. This is not true. In this blog post, we will outline the differences between these two terms, so you can have a better understanding of what is happening during your pregnancy.

What is Zygote? 

A zygote is a fertilised egg cell that develops into an embryo. The zygote contains all the genetic information (DNA) needed to develop into a baby. When the sperm and egg cells fuse, they form a zygote.

What is Foetus?

A foetus is an unborn baby that is in the second half of pregnancy. The foetus is fully formed and grows inside the mother’s womb.

Zygote And Foetus: Difference 

The main difference between a zygote and a foetus is that a zygote is a fertilised egg cell whereas a foetus is an unborn baby. A zygote contains all the genetic information needed to develop into a baby, whereas a foetus is fully formed and grows inside the mother’s womb. Read the below-given points to get a clear understanding:

Criteria 

Zygote

Foetus

Meaning

A zygote is a fertilised egg cell that contains all the genetic information needed to develop into a baby

A foetus is an unborn baby that is in the second half of pregnancy.

Location

A zygote is formed when the sperm and egg cells fuse

A foetus grows inside the mother’s womb

Size

A zygote is very small, about the size of a pinhead

A foetus is much larger, about the size of a watermelon

Shape

A zygote is round and has a smooth surface

A foetus is long and has a wrinkled surface

Genetic information

A zygote contains all the genetic information (DNA) needed to develop into a baby

A foetus does not contain all the genetic information needed to develop into a baby

Development

A zygote develops into an embryo

A foetus develops inside the mother’s womb

Pregnancy

A zygote is not considered to be a pregnancy

A foetus is considered to be pregnant

Conclusion

So, what is the difference between a zygote and a foetus? A zygote is a single cell that is formed when the sperm and egg unite. This fertilised egg will start to divide and grow into an embryo. The embryo will then implant in the uterus and develop into a foetus. The development of the baby will continue until birth. Foetuses can feel pain and experience other sensations by about 20 weeks gestation. It’s important to remember that every pregnancy is different, so these timeframes may vary for each individual.  

faq

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to the most common queries related to the NEET UG Examination Preparation.

When does a zygote form?

Answer:  A zygote forms when a sperm fertilises an egg.

What is the difference between a zygote and an embryo?

Answer: The main difference between a zygote and an embryo is that an embryo has started to develop...Read full

What is the difference between an embryo and a foetus?

Answer: The most obvious difference between an embryo and a foetus is size. A foetus is made up of ...Read full

Answer:  A zygote forms when a sperm fertilises an egg.

Answer: The main difference between a zygote and an embryo is that an embryo has started to develop into specific types of cells, whereas a zygote has the potential to develop into any type of cell in the body.

Answer: The most obvious difference between an embryo and a foetus is size. A foetus is made up of millions of cells, whereas an embryo is only one cell. Another difference is that a foetus has already started to develop into specific types of cells, whereas an embryo has the potential to develop into any type of cell in the body.

 

 

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