Homologous chromosomes are a pair of chromosomes that have the same genes in the same order, but may have different alleles, one inherited from the mother and one from the father. They are paired chromosomes that are similar in size, shape, and carry the same type of genetic information. Homologous chromosomes are important in the processes of meiosis and mitosis, as they allow for the recombination and random assortment of genetic material. During meiosis, homologous chromosomes line up and recombination occurs between them, resulting in gametes with unique combinations of alleles on each chromosome and therefore unique individuals. Homologous chromosomes are comprised of a paternal chromosome and a maternal chromosome. In humans, there are a total of 46 chromosomes in the nucleus of a somatic cell, with 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes.