Question

1. in human cells, 2n = 46. how many chromosomes would you expect to find in a sperm cell? how many would you expect to find in an egg cell?

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the concept of haploid and diploid cells

In humans, somatic cells are diploid (\(2N\)), meaning they have two sets of chromosomes. Gametes (sperm and egg cells) are haploid (\(N\)), meaning they have half the number of chromosomes as diploid cells.

Step2: Calculate the number of chromosomes in gametes

Given that \(2N = 46\) for human somatic cells, to find the number of chromosomes in haploid cells (\(N\)), we divide the diploid number by 2. So, \(N=\frac{46}{2}=23\).

Answer:

A sperm cell and an egg cell (both are gametes) will each have 23 chromosomes.