Explain chromosome with a diagram.

**OR**

Compare the prophase of mitotic and meiotic division.

Question

Explain chromosome with a diagram.

**OR**

Compare the prophase of mitotic and meiotic division.

Accepted Answer

> [!TLDR]
> A chromosome is condensed chromatin (DNA wound around histone proteins) that appears during cell division as two sister chromatids joined at a centromere; the position of the centromere gives four shape types.
>
> **What a chromosome is:** In a non-dividing cell the genetic material exists as loosely coiled chromatin - DNA wrapped around histone proteins. When the cell prepares to divide, this chromatin coils and condenses into distinct, rod-like, darkly staining bodies called chromosomes, which can then be seen under a light microscope.
>
> **Structure (label on the diagram):**
> - **Chromatids:** After DNA replication each chromosome consists of two identical threads called sister chromatids, holding identical copies of the DNA.
> - **Centromere:** A constricted point (primary constriction) where the two chromatids are joined; it carries a disc-shaped protein structure, the kinetochore, to which spindle fibres attach during division.
> - **Arms:** The centromere divides each chromatid into a shorter arm (p) and a longer arm (q).
> - **Telomeres:** The specialised protective tips at the two ends of the chromosome.
> - Some chromosomes also show a secondary constriction bearing a satellite (SAT-chromosome).
> …

Q.Explain chromosome with a diagram. OR Compare the prophase of mitotic and meiotic division.

Concept understanding — Chromosome Structure and Behaviour

Q.Explain chromosome with a diagram. OR Compare the prophase of mitotic and meiotic division.

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