What term describes a cell that contains one copy of every chromosome?

The term that describes a cell containing one copy of every chromosome is "haploid." In humans, haploid cells are primarily the gametes, which include sperm and egg cells. These cells are crucial for sexual reproduction, as they carry half the genetic material needed to form a new organism. When two haploid gametes unite during fertilization, they create a diploid zygote, which then develops into an embryo.

In contrast, diploid cells have two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent, and polyploid cells contain more than two sets of chromosomes, which is common in some plants but not typically in human cells. The reference to "cells of the embryo" would pertain to diploid cells since they are formed after the union of haploid gametes. Understanding these definitions is key in grasping the concepts of human reproduction and genetics.