Here's why:

* Diploid Cells: Normal human body cells (somatic cells) are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes (46 total).

* Haploid Cells: Gametes (sperm and egg) are haploid, meaning they have only one set of chromosomes (23 total). This is because when a sperm and egg combine during fertilization, they create a diploid zygote with 46 chromosomes.