looking at a life cycle chart. what does "1n" and "2n" mean? :/

Question

aaronq · Answer

it means the number of chromosomes.. 1n means haploid which means half of the amount of chromosomes. 2n means diploid, "typical" amount of chromosomes.

In humans diploid means 46 chromosomes (all cells have this many) except gametes (sperm, eggs) which are haploid and have 23 chromosomes

anonymous · Answer

@aaronq

anonymous · Answer

how would i read this?

aaronq · Answer

on the bottom portion between syngamy and meiosis the organism is diploid (2n), in the upper portion the organism is 1n (haploid)

anonymous · Answer

So it starts with 1 haploid cell, undergoes mitosis, now the cell is in an adult phase where gametes are produced?
These gametes undergo syngamy to produce zygotes, which are diploid?
then the zygotes under meiosis, then it starts over?
@aaronq

aaronq · Answer

yep, thats what the diagram says