Quaking aspen can send out underground stems for asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction is not as common, but when it does happen, the haploid gametes have 19 chromosomes. How many chromosomes are in the cells of the underground stems?

A) 9

B) 10

C) 19

D) 38

D) 38

Explanation:

Most eukaryotes use meiosis as a type of cell division to produce reproductive cells, also known as gametes, this cells are used for sexual reproduction where they fuse together in a process known as fertilization. Somatic cells are diploid while gametes are haploid.

Diploid = 2 (n)

Haploid = n

If the gametes are haploid and contain 19 chromosomes (n = 19), somatic cells must have twice the number (2 * 19 = 38). Options A, B or C are not possible be.