During meiosis in a diploid flowering plant with chromosome number $2n=28$, only independent assortment occurs (no crossing over). How many distinct haploid gamete combinations can be produced?

Step-by-step solution

1. Identify diploid chromosome number: $2n=28$.
2. Determine haploid number: $n=14$.
3. Each of the 14 chromosome pairs segregates independently during meiosis I.
4. Number of possible combinations = $2^{14}$.
5. Compute $2^{14}=16384$.

Concept tested: Independent assortment

Published 16 October 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked