What describes the human zygote in terms of chromosome number?

The human zygote is formed when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell, leading to the fusion of their genetic material. In terms of chromosome number, the zygote possesses a complete set of chromosomes, which is referred to as the diploid number. This means that it carries 46 chromosomes in total, made up of 23 pairs—one from the mother (egg) and one from the father (sperm).

The correct assessment of the zygote's chromosome composition is that it has a diploid count of 46 chromosomes, making it fundamentally different from a haploid cell, which would contain only one set of 23 chromosomes. While the zygote does originate from the combination of gametes that have half the diploid number (23 chromosomes), once fertilization occurs, the result is a zygote that has the full complement of genetic material.

Thus, it is accurate to state that the zygote has a complete diploid count of 46 chromosomes, indicating the successful fusion of genetic material from both parents, which will play a crucial role in the growth and development of the resulting organism.