Diploid vs Haploid (Edexcel IGCSE Science)

Spec point — 4.32 · know that in human cells the diploid number of chromosomes is 46 and the haploid number is 23

Diploid vs Haploid

• A diploid cell is a cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes (2n)

  • These chromosomes contain the DNA necessary for protein synthesis and cell function
  • Nearly all cells in the human body are diploid with 23 pairs(46) of chromosomes in their nucleus

• Haploid cells contain one complete set of chromosomes (n)

  • In other words they have half the number of chromosomes compared to diploid cells
  • Humans have haploid cells that contain 23 chromosomes in their nucleus (no pairs)
  • These haploid cells are called gametes and they are involved in sexual reproduction
  • For humans they are the female egg and the male sperm

Haploid and diploid cells.