Our closest primate relative, the chimpanzee, has a diploid number of 2n =48. For each of the following stages of M phase, identify the number of chromosomes present in each cell.

early prophase I

Key Concepts

Diploid Number

The diploid number (2n) refers to the total number of chromosomes in a somatic cell, which includes pairs of homologous chromosomes. In the case of chimpanzees, the diploid number is 48, meaning there are 24 pairs of chromosomes. This concept is crucial for understanding how chromosomes are organized and distributed during cell division.

M Phase of Cell Cycle

M phase, or mitotic phase, is the stage of the cell cycle where cell division occurs, including both mitosis and cytokinesis. During this phase, the cell's chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope. Understanding M phase is essential for determining how many chromosomes are present at various stages of cell division, such as prophase.

Prophase I of Meiosis

Prophase I is the first stage of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over. In this stage, the diploid number of chromosomes is still present, but they are organized into tetrads (pairs of homologous chromosomes). For chimpanzees, this means that during early prophase I, there would be 48 chromosomes, but they are in a paired state.