In humans, how many chromosomes are typically present in a normal somatic (body) cell?

• A. 44 chromosomes
• B. 46 chromosomes (23 pairs)
• C. 23 chromosomes
• D. 92 chromosomes

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that human somatic cells are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes—one set inherited from each parent.
2. Recall that humans have 23 distinct types of chromosomes, so one set contains 23 chromosomes.
3. Since somatic cells are diploid, multiply the number of chromosomes in one set by 2 to account for both sets.
4. Express this calculation as: \(\text{Total chromosomes} = 23 \times 2\).
5. Conclude that the typical number of chromosomes in a normal human somatic cell is the result of this multiplication.