In the context of sex chromosomes, how many total chromosomes are present in a normal human somatic cell?

• A. 23
• B. 46
• C. 44
• D. 48

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a normal human somatic cell is diploid, meaning it contains two sets of chromosomes—one set inherited from each parent.
2. Recall that humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, which includes 22 pairs of autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes.
3. Calculate the total number of chromosomes by multiplying the number of pairs by 2, since each pair consists of two chromosomes.
4. Express this calculation as an equation: \(\text{Total chromosomes} = 23 \times 2\).
5. Recognize that this total includes both autosomes and sex chromosomes, giving the complete chromosome count in a normal human somatic cell.