What is the Difference Between Haploid and Diploid?

The difference between haploid and diploid cells lies in the number of chromosome sets found in the nucleus:

• Haploid cells contain only one set of chromosomes (n).
• Diploid cells contain two sets of chromosomes (2n).

The term "ploidy" refers to the number of sets of chromosomes within the nucleus of a cell. In higher organisms, such as humans, haploid cells are typically used for sex cells (gametes), while all other cells besides sex cells are diploid.

Haploid cells are formed through the process of meiosis, while diploid cells undergo mitosis. Examples of haploid cells include gametes (male or female germ cells), while examples of diploid cells include blood cells.

Comparative Table: Haploid vs Diploid

The main difference between haploid and diploid cells is the number of chromosome sets found in the nucleus of a cell. Here is a table comparing the two:

Haploid cells contain only one set of chromosomes (n), while diploid cells contain two sets of chromosomes (2n). Haploid cells are formed through meiosis, a process that reduces the chromosome number by half, while diploid cells undergo mitosis, which maintains the chromosome number. In humans, haploid cells are used for sex cells (gametes), such as sperm and ova, while all other cells in the body, except for gametes, are diploid.