Chapter 10: Sexual Reproduction and Genetics CHROMOSOMES AND CHROMOSOME NUMBER -Human body cells have 46 chromosomes -Each parent contributes 23 chromosomes -Homologous chromosomes- one of two paired chromosomes, one from each parent -Same length -Same centromere position -Carry genes that control the same inherited traits HAPLOID AND DIPLOID CELLS -An organism produces gametes to maintain the same number of chromosomes from generation to generation -Human gametes contain 23 chromosomes -A cell with n chromosomes is a haploid cell -A cell with 2n chromosomes is a diploid cell - MEIOSIS I -The sexual life cycle in animals ivolves meiosis -Meiosis produces gametes -When gametes combine in fertilization, the number of chromosomes is restored MEIOSIS