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Multiple Choice
How many pairs of homologous chromosomes do human somatic cells have?
A
46 pairs
B
23 pairs
C
24 pairs
D
22 pairs
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of homologous chromosomes: Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that have the same structure and carry the same genes, although they may have different alleles. Each pair consists of one chromosome from each parent.
Recognize that human somatic cells are diploid: Somatic cells are any cells forming the body of an organism, excluding germ cells. In humans, somatic cells are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes.
Identify the total number of chromosomes in human somatic cells: Human somatic cells have a total of 46 chromosomes.
Determine the number of homologous pairs: Since human somatic cells are diploid with 46 chromosomes, they are organized into 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes.
Conclude that the correct number of homologous chromosome pairs in human somatic cells is 23 pairs.