Identical twins develop from which of the following?

Identical twins, also known as monozygotic twins, originate from a single fertilized egg, which is referred to as a zygote. After fertilization, this zygote undergoes cell division and eventually splits into two separate embryos. This process ensures that the twins share the exact same genetic material, making them genetically identical.

The development of identical twins distinctly contrasts with fraternal twins, who arise from two separate eggs being fertilized by two different sperm cells. This genetic difference accounts for the variation between fraternal twins.

Focusing on the provided options, the correct choice highlights the initial formation of identical twins through the splitting of one fertilized egg, elucidating their unique genetic makeup and similarity.