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Multiple Choice
What is the primary difference between diploid and haploid cells?
A
Diploid cells are involved in sexual reproduction, while haploid cells are involved in asexual reproduction.
B
Diploid cells are found only in plants, while haploid cells are found only in animals.
C
Diploid cells contain two sets of chromosomes, while haploid cells contain one set.
D
Diploid cells undergo meiosis, while haploid cells undergo mitosis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the concept of ploidy, which refers to the number of sets of chromosomes in a cell. This is fundamental to distinguishing between diploid and haploid cells.
Diploid cells, denoted as 2n, contain two complete sets of chromosomes. These cells are typical in somatic (body) cells of organisms and are crucial for sexual reproduction.
Haploid cells, denoted as n, contain only one complete set of chromosomes. These cells are typically found in gametes (sperm and egg cells) and are essential for sexual reproduction as they combine to form a diploid zygote.
The primary difference between diploid and haploid cells is the number of chromosome sets they contain: diploid cells have two sets, while haploid cells have one set.
Understanding the processes these cells undergo: diploid cells can undergo mitosis for growth and repair, and meiosis to produce haploid gametes, while haploid cells typically undergo mitosis to maintain their number in asexual reproduction.