In diploid human cells, how many total chromosomes are present, including both autosomes and sex chromosomes?

• A. 48
• B. 23
• C. 44
• D. 46

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that human cells are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes—one set inherited from each parent.
2. Recall that humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes in total, which includes both autosomes and 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 22 pairs of autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes, summing to the final chromosome count.