How many pairs of homologous chromosomes are present in a typical human somatic cell?

• A. 46 pairs
• B. 24 pairs
• C. 23 pairs
• D. 22 pairs

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a typical human somatic cell is a diploid cell, meaning it contains two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.
2. Recognize that humans have a total of 46 chromosomes in their somatic cells, which are organized into pairs.
3. Each pair consists of homologous chromosomes, which are chromosomes of the same size and shape that carry genes for the same traits.
4. Divide the total number of chromosomes (46) by 2 to determine the number of homologous pairs.
5. Conclude that there are 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes in a typical human somatic cell.