Final answer:
Autosomes are the 22 pairs of non-sex chromosomes found in both male and female human body cells, totaling 44 autosomes per cell. Combining these with the two sex chromosomes results in the full set of 46 chromosomes, or 23 pairs, in each human body cell.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is an Autosome?
An autosome is any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome. In humans, autosomes are the first 22 of the 23 pairs of chromosomes. These chromosomes are labeled 1 through 22 and are identical in both males and females, carrying the bulk of an individual's genetic information. As opposed to the 23rd pair, known as the sex chromosomes, which determine the sex of the individual (XX for females and XY for males), autosomes encompass genes that control the development of characteristics and traits that are not directly linked to the biological differences between sexes.
How Many Autosomes in the Human Body Cell?
In each human body cell, there are 22 pairs of autosomes, making a total of 44 autosomes. When combined with the pair of sex chromosomes, the complete set consists of 46 chromosomes, or 23 pairs. It's essential to note that while each pair of autosomes is homologous, meaning the two chromosomes are similar in shape, size, and genetic content, each chromosome within the pair can carry different alleles - variants of the same gene.