A human somatic cell typically has 46 chromosomes, organized into 23 pairs. These chromosomes contain the genetic information necessary for the development and functioning of the human body. Each parent contributes one chromosome to each pair, meaning that genetic material is inherited from both the mother and the father. The 23rd pair determines an individual’s sex, with XX indicating female and XY indicating male. This chromosomal structure is crucial for processes such as cell division and genetic inheritance.