Which statement best defines diploid in terms of chromosome Sets?

• A. Two sets of chromosomes and genes
• B. One set of chromosomes
• C. Three sets of chromosomes
• D. Four sets of genes

Answer: (A)

Diploid means having two complete sets of chromosomes. In sexually reproducing organisms, each chromosome has a homolog from the other parent, so most genes are present in two copies—one on each homolog. This two-set organization defines the diploid state for body (somatic) cells, while cells that produce offspring (gametes) are haploid, carrying only one set. The idea of two sets of chromosomes and the genes they carry best captures what diploid describes. The other options describe having one set, three sets, or four sets, which are haploid or polyploid states and do not define diploidy.