What occurs to the follicle during ovulation?

During ovulation, the follicle undergoes a process where it bursts and releases the egg, which is the primary function of ovulation in the female reproductive cycle. As the follicle matures, it develops a fluid-filled antrum and becomes ready for release. When ovulation occurs, a surge of hormones signals the follicle, causing it to rupture and expel the egg into the fallopian tube, where it can potentially be fertilized by sperm. This key event marks the transition from the follicular phase to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

The other options describe processes that do not accurately represent what happens during ovulation. For example, while the follicle does transform into a structure called the corpus luteum after releasing the egg, this transformation does not occur during the actual process of ovulation itself. Instead, it is the result of subsequent hormonal changes following the release of the egg.