In a diploid organism with a total of 46 chromosomes, how many homologous chromosome pairs are present in a somatic cell?

• A. 46 pairs
• B. 92 pairs
• C. 23 pairs
• D. 12 pairs

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a diploid organism has two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. This means that each chromosome has a homologous partner.
2. Recognize that the total number of chromosomes in a diploid organism is given as 46. This includes both sets of chromosomes.
3. Divide the total number of chromosomes by 2 to find the number of homologous pairs. This is because each pair consists of two homologous chromosomes.
4. Calculate: \( \frac{46}{2} \) to determine the number of homologous chromosome pairs.
5. Conclude that the number of homologous chromosome pairs in a somatic cell of this organism is 23.