Textbook Question
A pair of homologous chromosomes in Drosophila has the following content (single letters represent genes):
Chromosome 1RNMDHBGKWU
Chromosome 2RNMDHBDHBGKWU
What term best describes this situation?
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1. Introduction to Genetics
Fundamentals of Genetics
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In humans, how many chromosomes are present in a typical somatic (body) cell?
A
44
B
46
C
23
D
92
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that humans are diploid organisms, meaning their somatic cells contain two sets of chromosomes—one set inherited from each parent.
Recall that the haploid number (n) in humans is 23, which represents the number of chromosomes in gametes (sperm or egg cells).
Since somatic cells are diploid, calculate the total number of chromosomes by multiplying the haploid number by 2: $2 \times 23$.
Recognize that this calculation gives the diploid number (2n), which is the total number of chromosomes in a typical human somatic cell.
Conclude that the typical number of chromosomes in a human somatic cell is the diploid number obtained from the calculation.
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