Question

When the centromere is situated in the middle of two equal arms of chromosomes, the chromosome is referred as

• A. Telocentric
• B. Metacentric
• C. Sub-metacentric
• D. Acrocentric

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Metacentric

The correct option is option B.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Thread-like structures present in the nucleus and carry genetic information are known as chromosomes.
2. Chromosomes are made of chromatin containing single DNA and associated proteins.
3. Each chromosome is made up of two symmetrical chromatids known as sister chromatids.
4. Two sister chromosomes are joined by a centromere.
5. The centromere divides the chromosome into two parts: p arm (shorter arm) and q arm (longer arm).
6. When the centromere is situated in the middle of two equal arms of chromosomes, it is known as the metacentric chromosome.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A:

A chromosome is said to be telocentric when the centromere is present at the terminal or end position.

Option C:

A chromosome is referred to as sub-metacentric when the centromere is present slightly away from the middle.

Option D:

A chromosome is said to be acrocentric when the centromere is present very close to one end of the chromosome.

Final answer: When the centromere is situated in the middle of two equal arms of chromosomes, the chromosome is referred to as metacentric.