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Multiple Choice
Which of the following represents the total number of sex chromosomes typically found in a human somatic (body) cell?
A
2
B
23
C
46
D
1
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that human somatic cells are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes: one set inherited from each parent.
Recall that humans have a total of 46 chromosomes in somatic cells, which include 22 pairs of autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes.
Identify that the sex chromosomes determine the biological sex of the individual and are represented as X and Y chromosomes.
Since there is one pair of sex chromosomes in each somatic cell, calculate the total number of sex chromosomes by multiplying the number of pairs by 2: $1 \times 2$.
Conclude that the total number of sex chromosomes in a human somatic cell is 2.