Final answer:
In Biology, the number of different combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes that can be packaged in gametes is calculated as 2^n, where n is the haploid chromosome number. For humans with 23 chromosome pairs, this results in over 8 million different combinations, facilitating genetic diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of this question is Biology, and it touches on genetics and the process of meiosis, which is a critical aspect of reproductive biology. When it comes to determining how many different combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes can be packaged in gametes, the basic principle to remember is that during meiosis, homologous chromosomes are independently assorted. This means that each gamete, such as a sperm or egg, gets a random mix of chromosomes from both parents. For a typical organism whose muscle cells contain 32 chromosomes, the gametes would contain half that number, meaning 16 chromosomes, since gametes are haploid.
In humans, for example, which have 23 pairs of chromosomes, this independent assortment results in a vast number of possible combinations for the gametes. Specifically, the formula to calculate the number of different combinations is 2^n, where n represents the haploid number of chromosomes. Therefore, for human gametes, the calculation would be 2^23, leading to 8,388,608 different possible combinations. This high level of genetic diversity is crucial for evolution and the survival of species.