Which of the following statements defines a diploid cell?

A diploid cell is characterized by containing two complete sets of chromosomes, one set inherited from each parent. This definition is central to understanding the genetic structure of organisms that reproduce sexually. In humans, for example, diploid cells typically contain 46 chromosomes, arranged in 23 pairs, reflecting their dual parental origin.

The concept of diploidy can also be contrasted with haploidy, where a cell possesses only one set of chromosomes. This distinction is crucial in understanding processes such as meiosis, where diploid cells ultimately give rise to haploid gametes. Furthermore, while mitosis produces daughter cells that are also diploid, the process itself does not define diploidy; rather, it is the number of chromosome sets in the cell that does. Similarly, fertilization refers to the fusion of haploid gametes to form a diploid zygote, but it does not serve as a defining characteristic of diploid cells themselves.