What are haploid cells?

Haploid cells are characterized by having one complete set of chromosomes, which is half the number found in diploid cells. In humans, for instance, the haploid number is 23, corresponding to the one set of chromosomes contained in gametes (sperm and egg cells). This one set is essential for sexual reproduction, as it ensures that when two gametes fuse during fertilization, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid number of chromosomes.

In contrast, diploid cells have two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent, which is not the defining characteristic of haploid cells. The options referring to mitosis or the identity of cells to parent cells do not pertain to the definition of haploid cells either, as haploid cells specifically relate to the number of chromosome sets rather than their duplication or similarity to parent cells. Thus, the correct understanding of haploid cells focuses on their unique genetic makeup, which is critical for processes like meiosis, leading to the formation of gametes.