The DNA is packaged by special proteins called histones to form chromatin. The chromatin further condenses to form chromosomes. This means chromatin is a lower order of DNA organization, whereas chromosomes are a higher order of DNA organization.
To understand how chromatin and chromosomes are different from each other, let us have a look at some of the major differences between chromatin and chromosomes.
Chromatin vs Chromosomes
Difference between Chromosomes and Chromatin |
|
|---|---|
|
CHROMATIN |
CHROMOSOMES |
| Composed of nucleosomes |
They are condensed chromatin fibers |
|
Unpaired |
Paired |
| Visualized under the electron microscope |
Visualised under a light microscope |
|
Thin, long, uncoiled structure |
Thick, compact, ribbon-like structure |
| Allows DNA replication |
No metabolic activity shown |
Chromatin
Chromatin is located in the nucleus of our cell. It is composed of DNA and proteins that condense to form chromosomes. It compresses the DNA structure into a compact unit so that it can fit within the nucleus. The histone proteins organize the DNA into special structures called nucleosomes. The nucleosome further folds to form a chromatin fibre.
Chromosomes
The DNA is packed into thread-like structures called chromosomes. The DNA is tightly coiled around histone proteins several times to form a chromosome. These are formed by the condensation of chromatin fibres.
To know more about the difference between chromatin and chromosomes, keep visiting BYJU’S website or download BYJU’S app.
Related Links:
| Difference between gene and chromosome | Chromosome |
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