What is internal fertilization?

Internal fertilization refers to the process where the sperm fertilizes the egg inside the reproductive tract of the female organism. This method allows for a more controlled environment for the fertilization process, improving the chances of successful reproduction. In species that utilize internal fertilization, the sperm can encounter the egg directly in a secure location within the female's body, which can provide protection from environmental hazards and predation.

This contrasts with external fertilization, where the union of sperm and egg occurs outside the female's body, typically in aquatic environments, leading to a greater exposure to potential threats and a reliance on environmental conditions for successful reproduction. The other options describe scenarios that do not align with the concept of internal fertilization.