Sperm cells of the Russian dwarf hamster, Phodopus sungorus, contain 14

chromosomes. What is the total number of chromosomes that would be contained in

a normal, newly formed zygote of this species?

A. 7

B. 14

C. 28

D. 42

The correct option is C) 28

Explanation:

Sex cells divide by the process of meiosis. Meiosis can be described as a type of cell division in which the daughter cells formed contain half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. This is because when the sex cells from the female and male parent will unite then the zygote will possess the right number of chromosomes.

In the following scenario, the sperm cells of the Russian dwarf will contain 14 chromosomes which will unite with the egg of another Russian dwarf also having 14 chromosomes. As a result, a zygote will be produced having 28 chromosomes.