In one homologous pair, the number of characters, also known as alleles, is two. Homologous pairs refer to the matching pairs of chromosomes in a diploid cell, with one chromosome inherited from each parent. Each chromosome in a homologous pair carries genes that determine specific traits.
For each gene in a homologous pair, an individual inherits one allele from their mother and one allele from their father. These alleles may be the same (homozygous) or different (heterozygous) for a particular gene. The combination of alleles on the homologous pair determines the genetic makeup or genotype of an individual for that specific gene.