How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene?

Geneticists use maps to pinpoint where specific genes are located on chromosomes. There are two main types of maps: cytogenetic maps and molecular maps. Cytogenetic maps describe a gene's location based on distinct banding patterns seen when chromosomes are stained with specific chemicals. These maps provide a rough estimate of where a gene is located on a chromosome. On the other hand, molecular maps offer a more precise description of a gene's position. They are based on the actual sequence of nucleotides that make up the chromosome. It not only specifies where the gene is located but also indicates its size. Additionally, knowing the molecular location enables researchers to determine the distance between the gene and other genes on the same chromosome with accuracy.