Humans have how many pairs of chromosomes?

**The reasoning** Think of chromosomes as paired instruction manuals for building and running your body. Humans inherit one set from mum and one from dad. Each parent gives you **23 chromosomes**, so you end up with **23 pairs** (that's 46 total chromosomes, but the question asks for *pairs*). Here's the key: **23 pairs = 46 individual chromosomes**. These include 22 pairs of autosomes (body chromosomes) plus 1 pair of sex chromosomes (XX for females, XY for males). **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **Option C (46)** is the trap! 46 is the *total number* of chromosomes, not pairs. Many students pick this because they've heard "humans have 46 chromosomes" but forget the question asks specifically for *pairs*. - **Options A (12) and D (48)** are distractors with no biological basis — just numbers to confuse you under exam pressure. **Quick takeaway** Remember: **23 pairs, 46 total** — like 23 pairs of shoes means 46 individual shoes. Always check whether the question asks for pairs or total count!