Which term describes one complete set of chromosomes (n)?

Which term describes one complete set of chromosomes (n)?

• A. Diploid
• B. Haploid
• C. Monoploid
• D. Polyploid

Answer: (B)

One complete set of chromosomes is described as haploid. The symbol n represents that single set, one chromosome from each homologous pair. Cells with this single set are haploid, like gametes (sperm and egg) in animals, which fuse to form a diploid zygote (2n) when fertilization occurs. In contrast, cells with two complete sets are diploid (2n), which is typical for most of an organism’s body cells. Polyploid refers to more than two sets (3n, 4n, etc.). While monoploid sometimes appears in specific contexts, the standard term for one complete chromosome set is haploid.

One complete set of chromosomes is described as haploid. The symbol n represents that single set, one chromosome from each homologous pair. Cells with this single set are haploid, like gametes (sperm and egg) in animals, which fuse to form a diploid zygote (2n) when fertilization occurs. In contrast, cells with two complete sets are diploid (2n), which is typical for most of an organism’s body cells. Polyploid refers to more than two sets (3n, 4n, etc.). While monoploid sometimes appears in specific contexts, the standard term for one complete chromosome set is haploid.