Multiple Choice
In humans, how many chromosomes are present in a mature sperm cell (after meiosis is complete)?
13
views
17. Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction
Meiosis
Multiple Choice
In humans, how many chromosomes does a sex cell (gamete) contain?
A
46 chromosomes
B
92 chromosomes
C
12 chromosomes
D
23 chromosomes
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that human body cells (somatic cells) are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent, totaling 46 chromosomes.
Recognize that sex cells (gametes), such as sperm and egg cells, are haploid, meaning they contain only one set of chromosomes to ensure that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid number.
Recall that the haploid number in humans is half of the diploid number, so you divide the total number of chromosomes in somatic cells by 2.
Express this mathematically as: \(\text{Number of chromosomes in gamete} = \frac{46}{2}\).
Conclude that each human gamete contains 23 chromosomes, which is essential for maintaining chromosome number across generations.
Related Videos
Related Practice
