16.2.2

Gametes vs. Zygotes

Test yourself

Gametes and Zygotes

During sexual reproduction, gamete nuclei fuse to form a zygote. There is an important difference between the nuclei of these types of cell.

Illustrative background for Gamete nucleiIllustrative background for Gamete nuclei ?? "content

Gamete nuclei

  • Gamete nuclei are haploid.
  • This means they contain half the number of chromosomes found in a normal cell.
  • This is because they contain one complete set of chromosomes.
Illustrative background for Zygote nucleiIllustrative background for Zygote nuclei ?? "content

Zygote nuclei

  • Zygote nuclei are diploid.
  • This means they contain two complete sets of chromosomes.
  • This is because they have one set of chromosomes from each parent.
  • In humans, each diploid cell has 23 pairs of chromosomes.

Jump to other topics

1Classification of Living Organisms

2Organisation of the Organism

3Movement Into & Out of Cells

4Biological Molecules

5Enzymes

6Plant Nutrition

7Human Nutrition

8Transport in Plants

9Transport in Animals

10Diseases & Immunity

11Gas Exchange in Humans

12Respiration

13Excretion in Humans

14Coordination & Response

15Drugs

16Reproduction

17Inheritance

18Variation & Selection

19Organisms & Their Environment

20Human Influence on Ecosystems

21Biotechnology & Genetic Modification

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium