In maize, a meiocyte has 20 chromosomes, what will be the number of chromosomes in its somatic cell?
A
40
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B
30
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C
20
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D
10
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Solution
The correct option is C 20 A meiocyte is a type of cell that differentiates into a gamete through the process of meiosis. Through meiosis, the diploid meiocyte divides into four genetically different haploid gametes. Therefore a meiocyte typically has a haploid set of chromosomes, that is half the number relative to the somatic cell. In maize, however the meiocyte is diploid and so is its somatic cell. Hence both the meiocyte and somatic cells have 20 chromosomes.