Final answer:
After DNA replication, each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids, but the total number of chromosomes stays the same. The correct answer is A) The same number as before replication.
Step-by-step explanation:
After DNA replication, the total number of chromosomes would remain the same. However, each chromosome would consist of two identical copies known as sister chromatids. So, the correct answer to the question 'How many total chromosomes would you have after DNA replication (synthesis)?' is A) The same number as before replication. During the synthesis phase (S phase) of interphase in the cell cycle, each chromosome is replicated, but it is still considered one chromosome until they are separated during cell division.
A diploid cell has twice the number of chromosomes as a haploid cell, stated simply, a diploid cell has two sets of chromosomes, one set inherited from each parent. Therefore, before cell division, there exist two identical copies of each chromosome connected at the centromere, referred to as sister chromatids.