Unit 2: Introduction to Chromosomes Ch.1

Question 1

Chromosome Structure: What is a chromosome made of?

Answer 1

A single long DNA double helix packaged with proteins.

Question 2

DNA Packaging: How is DNA organized in packaged in chromosomes?

Answer 2

DNA is wrapped around histone proteins, forming a “noodles” chromatin fiber, which is then further copied
and condensed.

Question 3

Function of Packaging: Why is DNA packaging important?

Answer 3

It provides stability and organization for the long DNA molecule, making it easier to manager during cell division and other processes.

Question 4

Prokaryotic Chromosome: Describe the structure of a prokaryotic chromosome.

Answer 4

Single, Circular, made of DNA and proteins, located in the nucleotide region (cytoplasm).

Question 5

Eukaryotic Chromosome: Describe the structure of a eukaryotic chromosome.

Answer 5

Linear, made of DNA and histone proteins, located in the nucleus.

Question 6

Location of Genetic Material: Where is the genetic material located in prokaryotic?

Answer 6

Nucleoid region (cytoplasm).

Question 7

Location of Genetic Material: Where is the genetic material located in eukaryotes?

Answer 7

Nucleus.

Question 8

Chromosome Number: How many chromosomes do eukaryotes have?

Answer 8

Multiple, varies by species.

Question 9

Chromosome Number: How many prokaryotes have?

Answer 9

One.

Question 10

Genes: What are genes and where are they found?

Answer 10

Segments of DNA that code for specific protein or RNA molecules, located along the length of the chromosome.

Question 11

Prokaryotic Vs. Eukaryotic: What are the key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic chromosomes?

Answer 11

• Prokaryotic : Single, circle, in cytoplasm, no histone proteins.
• Eukaryotic: Multiple, linear, in nucleus, histone proteins.

Question 12

What is a nucleotide?

Answer 12

The region in a prokaryotic cell where the chromosomes is located.

Question 13

Chromosomes Appearance in Interphase: What do chromosomes look like in the nucleus most of the time (when the cell is not dividing)?

Answer 13

They appear as diffuse, loosely packed “noodles” or “shrimp” like structures.

Question 14

Chromosome Changes Before Cell Division: What happens to chromosomes before cell division?

Answer 14

They condense into more compact, visible structures.

Question 15

Chromatin vs. Chromosomes: What is the difference between chromatin and chromosomes?

Answer 15

Chromosomes is the loosely packed form DNA during interphase. Chromosomes are the condensed, tightly packed form of DNA during cell division.

Question 16

Interphase: What is interphase?

Answer 16

The period in the cell cycle when the cell is not actively dividing; characterized by active gene expression and loose, diffuse chromatin.

Question 17

Function of Chromosomes: What is the main functions of chromosomes?

Answer 17

To carry and manage the genetic information of an organism, ensuring accurate transmission during cell division.

Question 18

Gene Expression: What happens regarding gene expression during interphase?

Answer 18

The cell actively expresses genes to produce proteins and RNA necessary for cellular function.

Question 19

Condensation of Chromosomes: When do chromosomes condense?

Answer 19

At the beginning of the cell division.

Question 20

Visual Difference: What is this?

Answer 20

Chromatin in interphase.

Question 21

Visual Difference: What is this?

Answer 21

Condensed chromosomes preparing for cell division.