Diploid vs Haploid (Edexcel IGCSE Biology (Modular))

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.