Haploid Cells
Definition
Haploid cells are cells that contain only one set of chromosomes. In humans, these would be sperm or egg cells.
Analogy
If you think about your full genetic information as an entire book, then haploid cells would be like having only half of that book - still enough to tell a story but not complete without another half.
Related terms
Diploid Cells: Cells containing two sets of chromosomes; one from each parent.
Gametes: Sex cells (sperm or eggs) which are haploid and combine during fertilization to create a new organism with a full set of genes.
Zygote: A diploid cell resulting from the fusion of two haploid gametes; a fertilized ovum.
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