What is the diploid number of chromosomes for humans?

In humans, the diploid number of chromosomes is 46. This is because the diploid state represents two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. Humans inherit 23 chromosomes from their mother and 23 chromosomes from their father, leading to a total of 46 when these are combined.

The term "diploid" refers to cells that have two complete sets of chromosomes. In humans, this includes the somatic (non-reproductive) cells, which comprise the majority of the human body. Each set of 23 chromosomes contains one of each type of chromosome present in the human genome, resulting in the characteristic diploid number.

Understanding the diploid number is essential for grasping concepts related to genetics, cell division (specifically mitosis), and inheritance patterns in humans.