Question

mitosis and meiosis
humans have a total of 46 chromosomes that we get from our parents through sexual reproduction. each parent gives us 23 chromosomes meaning that we each end up with 23 pairs of chromosomes. so do we use mitosis? or meiosis?
the answer is we actually use both! crazy! you see, humans have two different groups of cells. first there are somatic cells. somatic cells make up your body. your hair, skin, bones, muscles, eyes and even your brain are made of somatic cells. these cells reproduce using mitosis so that each daughter cell is an exact clone. this makes sense when you think about it because when you heal a wound or grow you have to make sure the new cells have all 46 chromosomes.
then there are the sex cells also called gametes. gametes are the cells responsible for reproduction and creating new humans to continue the species. gametes are produced through meiosis which means each gamete has only 23 chromosomes. this makes sense also. this way when two gametes fuse together to make a new child you will have 46 chromosomes.

1. how many chromosomes do humans have from their parent’s total?

a. how many do we get from our mom? ______________
b. how many do we get from our dad? ______________

1. define...

a. somatic cells
b. gametes

1. when do humans use mitosis? why??
2. when do humans use meiosis? why??

Explanation:

Question 1

1a

Step1: Find relevant info

The text says "Each parent gives us 23 chromosomes".

Step2: Determine mom's contribution

Since each parent (mom and dad) gives 23, mom gives 23.

Step1: Find relevant info

The text says "Each parent gives us 23 chromosomes".

Step2: Determine dad's contribution

Since each parent (mom and dad) gives 23, dad gives 23.

From the text: "Somatic cells make up your body. Your hair, skin, bones, muscles, eyes and even your brain are made of somatic cells. These cells reproduce using mitosis so that each daughter cell is an exact clone."

Answer:

23

1b