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Multiple Choice
In a diploid organism, how many homologous chromosomes are present in each somatic cell?
A
23 pairs
B
46 single chromosomes
C
46 pairs
D
23 single chromosomes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of diploid organisms: Diploid organisms have two sets of chromosomes, one set inherited from each parent. This means that each chromosome has a homologous partner.
Identify what homologous chromosomes are: Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that have the same structure and carry the same genes, although they may have different alleles.
Determine the number of chromosome pairs in humans: Humans are diploid organisms with 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes in each somatic cell.
Calculate the total number of chromosomes: Since there are 23 pairs, and each pair consists of two chromosomes, the total number of chromosomes in a somatic cell is 46.
Clarify the difference between pairs and single chromosomes: 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes mean there are 46 single chromosomes in total, not 46 pairs.