What major events occur during fertilization?

During fertilization, a sperm cell penetrates an egg cell, leading to the fusion of their nuclei and the formation of a zygote. This process involves the sperm's acrosome releasing enzymes to facilitate entry into the egg, followed by a series of changes to prevent other sperm from entering. After fertilization, the zygote undergoes cleavage, a series of rapid cell divisions, as it begins its journey toward implantation in the uterus. Additionally, genetic material from both parents combines, establishing the genetic blueprint for the new organism.