| A chromosome is a DNA molecule that consists of a part or all of the genetic material of an organism. |
The chromosome is present in the nucleus of each cell, and it is packaged into thread-like structures. Structurally, each chromosome is composed of DNA that is tightly coiled around special proteins called histones. Typically, chromosomes are not visible under the microscope. The only time they are visible is during the process of cell division.
All living organisms have chromosomes; humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes. 22 pairs of these chromosomes are called autosomes – these are identical in males and females. The 23rd pair of chromosomes are called allosomes and they differ between the sexes. Males have one “X” and “Y” chromosome, while females have two copies of the “X” chromosome.
Main Article: Chromosomes
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Frequently Asked Questions on Chromosome
Define Chromosome.
Chromosomes are the DNA molecules that consist of a part or all of the genetic material of an organism.
How many chromosomes do humans have?
Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes. The 23rd pair of chromosomes is called the allosomes and the remaining pairs are called autosomes.
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