State that nuclei of gametes are haploid and that the nucleus of a zygote is diploid

In the context of sexual reproduction, it is important to understand the chromosomal composition of gametes and the zygote:

• Nuclei of Gametes: The nuclei of gametes (sperm and egg cells) are haploid, meaning they contain one set of chromosomes (n). In humans, for example, this is 23 chromosomes.
• Nucleus of a Zygote: Upon fertilization, when the nuclei of the haploid gametes fuse, they form a zygote. The nucleus of the zygote is diploid, meaning it contains two sets of chromosomes (2n). In humans, this results in 46 chromosomes, with one set inherited from each parent.

This transition from haploid gametes to a diploid zygote is crucial for maintaining the correct chromosome number across generations in sexually reproducing organisms.