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Multiple Choice
In humans, how many chromosomes are inherited from each parent during fertilization?
A
46 chromosomes from each parent
B
23 chromosomes from each parent
C
24 chromosomes from each parent
D
22 chromosomes from each parent
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that humans have a total of 46 chromosomes in each somatic (body) cell, arranged in 23 pairs.
Recognize that during reproduction, gametes (sperm and egg cells) are formed through a process called meiosis, which reduces the chromosome number by half.
Each gamete contains 23 chromosomes, which is half the number found in somatic cells, ensuring that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote has the full complement of 46 chromosomes.
During fertilization, one gamete from the father (sperm) and one gamete from the mother (egg) combine, each contributing 23 chromosomes.
Therefore, the zygote inherits 23 chromosomes from each parent, restoring the diploid number of 46 chromosomes.