What term refers to egg and sperm cells?

The term that refers to egg and sperm cells is germ cells. Germ cells are specialized cells that give rise to gametes, which are the reproductive cells involved in sexual reproduction. In humans and many other organisms, egg cells (ova) and sperm cells are both classified as germ cells because they contain half the number of chromosomes required for a complete organism, allowing for genetic diversity when two gametes combine during fertilization.

Haploids refers to cells that have a single set of unpaired chromosomes, which is true for egg and sperm cells since they are indeed haploid. However, the more specific term for these cells, focusing on their role in reproduction, is germ cells.

Diploids are cells that contain two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. This includes most body cells, or somatic cells, which are not involved in reproduction.

Somatic cells are all the non-reproductive cells in the body that contribute to the formation of the tissues and organs. They are diploid, making them distinct from germ cells.

Understanding these terms helps clarify the essential roles that germ cells play in the process of reproduction and genetic inheritance.