Chapter 8: Problem 1
How many chromatids does a duplicated chromosome have?
Short Answer
Expert verified
A duplicated chromosome has two chromatids.
Step by step solution
01
Understanding Chromosome Duplication
A chromosome consists of a single DNA molecule. Before a cell divides, each chromosome is duplicated. This process is a part of the cell cycle, specifically occurring during the S phase of interphase.
02
Defining Chromatids
After duplication, each chromosome consists of two identical copies. These copies are called sister chromatids. They are held together by a structure called the centromere.
03
Counting Chromatids in a Duplicated Chromosome
Since a duplicated chromosome consists of two sister chromatids that are identical, the total number of chromatids in a duplicated chromosome is two.
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Chromosome Duplication
Chromosome duplication is a vital step in the journey of cells. Imagine each chromosome as a book of instructions for the cell. To ensure that new cells have the same set of instructions, chromosomes must be duplicated before cell division. This duplication happens during the S phase of interphase in the cell cycle.
- **Single vs. Duplicated**: Initially, each chromosome is a single DNA molecule. After duplication, each one consists of two identical DNA molecules.
- **Importance**: This step ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical copy of the chromosome set. Without this, genetic consistency wouldn't be maintained across cell generations.
- **Result**: The duplication results in chromosomes having two sister chromatids, which will later be separated during cell division.
Cell Cycle
The cell cycle is the life cycle of a cell, detailing how it grows, duplicates its contents, and divides. It can be thought of like a well-orchestrated dance that prepares the cell for reproduction. The cycle has several important phases:
- **G1 Phase**: The cell grows and carries out normal functions.
- **S Phase**: Also known as the synthesis phase. It's when chromosome duplication occurs, each chromosome is duplicated to form sister chromatids.
- **G2 Phase**: The cell continues to grow and prepares for division.
- **M Phase (Mitosis)**: The actual division takes place, where sister chromatids separate into daughter cells.
- **Cytokinesis**: The cytoplasm divides, leading to two separate daughter cells.
Centromere
In the beautiful structure of chromosomes, centromeres play a crucial role, acting as the link that holds sister chromatids together. The centromere is the specific region of a chromosome where the two sister chromatids are most tightly connected.
- **Function**: It is essential during mitosis and meiosis because it enables the sister chromatids to move accurately to each daughter cell.
- **Location**: The position of the centromere can differ, leading to various shapes and sizes of chromosomes.
- **Mechanism**: Specialized proteins attach to centromeres, forming a complex known as the kinetochore, which is critical for chromosome movement.