Final answer:
The number of different gamete combinations for a diploid cell with 10 chromosomes is 32, as determined by the formula 2^n, where n represents the number of chromosome pairs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The number of different combinations in the gametes for a diploid cell with 10 chromosomes (2n = 10) can be calculated using the formula 2^n, where n is the number of chromosome pairs. Since a diploid organism has two sets of chromosomes, and this cell has 10 chromosomes, it means we have 5 pairs or sets (n=5). Therefore, the number of different combinations in the gametes is 2^5, which equals 32. So, the direct answer is 5) 32.
The reason behind this calculation is related to the fact that during meiosis, specifically during metaphase I, chromosomes can align in any combination on the metaphase plate, giving rise to different possible assortments when the chromosomes segregate into gametes. With 5 pairs of chromosomes, there are two possible orientations for each pair, resulting in 32 (2^5) possible combinations of chromosomes in the gametes. This number represents just the variety from the independent assortment of chromosomes and does not take into account additional genetic variability that might arise from crossing over during meiosis.