GED Science Practice

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What is the definition of a gamete?

  1. a segment of DNA that is involved in producing a polypeptide chain

  2. the state of matter distinguished from the solid and liquid states by relatively low density and viscosity

  3. underground water that is held in the soil and in pervious rocks

  4. a mature sexual reproductive cell having a single set of unpaired chromosomes

The correct answer is: a mature sexual reproductive cell having a single set of unpaired chromosomes

A gamete is defined as a mature sexual reproductive cell that contains a single set of unpaired chromosomes. This means that gametes are haploid cells, which possess half the number of chromosomes found in diploid cells, like somatic cells. In organisms that reproduce sexually, gametes are crucial for sexual reproduction; they combine during fertilization to form a zygote, restoring the diploid number of chromosomes. In animals, the male gamete is sperm, and the female gamete is an egg (or ovum). In plants, pollen carries the male gametes while ovules contain female gametes. This specialization and reduction in chromosome number ensures genetic diversity within a species, as each gamete contributes different genetic material to the offspring.

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