Question

which best explains the zygote? it has a diploid number of chromosomes. it has a haploid number of chromosomes. it has all the chromosomes of the mother. it has all the chromosomes of the father.

Explanation:

A zygote is formed by the fusion of a sperm (haploid, \(n\)) and an egg (haploid, \(n\)). So the zygote has a diploid (\(2n\)) number of chromosomes, combining genetic material from both parents (not all from one parent). Option 1 states it has a diploid number of chromosomes, which is correct. Option 2 is wrong as haploid is for gametes. Options 3 and 4 are wrong as zygote has chromosomes from both parents, not all from one.

Answer:

A. It has a diploid number of chromosomes.