16. There are 46 chromosomes in human somatic cells, but only 23 chromosomes in human sex cells.

Explain what would happen if the chromosome number is not reduced before sexual reproduction:

Answer AND Explanation:

Nondisjunction can occur thus the chromosome number is not reduced. If the resulting diploid gamete fuses with a normal haploid gamete, the zygote formed is triploid. This is called polyploidy.