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

• A. 24
• B. 23
• C. 46
• D. 22

Answer: (B)

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 the total number of chromosomes in a human somatic cell is 46.
3. Each pair of chromosomes consists of one chromosome from the mother and one from the father, forming homologous pairs.
4. Divide the total number of chromosomes (46) by 2 to determine the number of homologous pairs.
5. Conclude that there are 23 homologous pairs of chromosomes in a typical human somatic cell.