In a typical human somatic (diploid) cell, how many chromosomes are present in the nucleus?

• A. 92
• B. 44
• C. 23
• D. 46

Answer: (D)

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 the haploid number (n) for humans is 23, which represents the number of chromosomes in gametes (sperm or egg cells).
3. Since somatic cells are diploid (2n), multiply the haploid number by 2 to find the total number of chromosomes in a typical human somatic cell.
4. Write the equation: \(\text{Number of chromosomes} = 2 \times 23\).
5. Calculate the product to find the total number of chromosomes, which confirms that a typical human somatic cell contains 46 chromosomes.