Final answer:
Cells with one set of chromosomes are haploid (n), while those with two sets are diploid (2n). Haploid cells are gametes with 23 chromosomes, and diploid cells are somatic with 46 chromosomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cells that have a single set of chromosomes are said to have a haploid number of chromosomes; cells that contain two full sets of paired chromosomes are said to have a diploid number of chromosomes.
In humans, haploid cells, also known as gametes, contain 23 chromosomes. These are the reproductive cells, namely sperm and eggs. On the other hand, diploid cells contain 46 chromosomes, organized into 23 pairs. Each pair includes one chromosome from each parent, which are known as homologous chromosomes. These cells make up the majority of the human body, like skin, blood, and muscle cells. The nomenclature of 'n' for haploid and '2n' for diploid simplifies the description of the number of chromosome sets. This essential distinction is key during reproductive processes like meiosis, where diploid cells undergo division to produce haploid gametes.