Multiple Choice
In basic meiotic genetics, what kind of cell has two copies of each chromosome (i.e., is diploid)?
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17. Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction
Basics of Meiotic Genetics
Multiple Choice
In the context of meiotic genetics, what is a haploid cell?
A
A cell that contains one complete set of chromosomes (n), such as a gamete produced by meiosis
B
A cell that contains an extra copy of one chromosome due to nondisjunction (aneuploid)
C
A cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes (2n), such as most somatic cells
D
A cell in which homologous chromosomes are paired as bivalents throughout the cell cycle
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the definition of ploidy: Ploidy refers to the number of complete sets of chromosomes in a cell. For example, diploid (2n) means two sets, and haploid (n) means one set.
Recall that meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid cells from diploid cells.
Identify that a haploid cell contains one complete set of chromosomes, which is half the number found in somatic (body) cells.
Recognize that gametes (sperm and egg cells) are examples of haploid cells because they carry only one set of chromosomes to ensure that upon fertilization, the diploid number is restored.
Distinguish haploid cells from other options: cells with extra chromosomes (aneuploid), diploid cells with two sets, and cells with paired homologous chromosomes (bivalents) which occur during meiosis but do not define haploidy.
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