In what capacity does the amnion support the embryo?

The amnion is a crucial membrane that surrounds the embryo, and its primary function is to secrete amniotic fluid. This fluid plays several vital roles in supporting the developing embryo. It provides a cushioning effect, protecting the embryo from mechanical shocks and impacts. Additionally, the amniotic fluid creates a stable environment that maintains a constant temperature and allows the embryo to move, which is important for proper musculoskeletal development.

Moreover, the fluid helps prevent adhesions that could otherwise occur between the embryo and the amniotic sac. While the amniotic fluid contributes indirectly to waste management and gas exchange, those functions are not directly attributed to the amnion itself. Instead, the amnion's specific role is primarily centered around the secretion of the amniotic fluid and its protective qualities, making the correct answer the one that highlights its fluid-secreting function.