How many chromosomes are present in a sperm?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 23. Sperm cells are haploid, meaning they contain half the number of chromosomes as normal body cells. In humans, normal body cells have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs), while sperm cells have only 23 chromosomes. This is essential for maintaining the correct chromosome number after fertilization.
A: 1 - Incorrect. Sperm cells cannot have only 1 chromosome as they need to contribute genetic material during fertilization.
B: 2 - Incorrect. Having only 2 chromosomes would not provide sufficient genetic diversity for offspring.
C: 12 - Incorrect. This number does not align with the haploid nature of sperm cells in humans with 23 chromosomes.