Multiple Choice
In humans, how many chromosomes are present in each typical somatic (body) cell?
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17. Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction
Basics of Meiotic Genetics
Multiple Choice
In humans, how many chromosomes are present in a typical somatic (diploid) cell?
A
46 chromosomes
B
48 chromosomes
C
23 chromosomes
D
92 chromosomes
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that human cells can be classified as either somatic (body) cells or gametes (sex cells). Somatic cells are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.
Recall that the haploid number (n) in humans, which is the number of chromosomes in gametes, is 23. This represents one complete set of chromosomes.
Since somatic cells are diploid (2n), the total number of chromosomes in a typical somatic cell is twice the haploid number.
Use the formula for diploid chromosome number: \(2n = 2 \times 23\).
Calculate the total number of chromosomes in a typical human somatic cell by multiplying 2 by 23, which gives the diploid chromosome number.
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