What are the differences between chromosomes and chromatids?
Posted January 16, 2023
Basis of Differentiation |
Chromosome |
Chromatid |
Definition |
A chromosome is a DNA molecule that has all or part of the genetic material of an organism. |
A chromatid is one copy of a newly copied chromosome. It is still attached to the original chromosome by a single centromere. |
Content |
A chromosome consists of a single, double-stranded DNA molecule. |
A chromatid consists of two DNA strands joined together by their centromere. |
Structure |
Its structure is thin and ribbon-like. |
Its structure is thin, long, and fibrous. |
Condensation |
A chromosome is the most condensed form of DNA. DNA is condensed 10,000 times to form a chromosome. |
A chromatid is less condensed. It has an unraveled condensed structure of DNA. DNA is condensed 50 times to form a chromatid. |
Occurrence |
Chromosomes occur throughout the life cycle of cells. |
Chromatids are only created when the cell undergoes mitosis or meiosis. |
Genetic material/ identical – non-identical |
Homologous chromosomes are not identical. They have different traits as one copy of the gene comes from each parent. |
Homologous sister chromatids are identical. Each sister chromatid is an exact copy of the other. |
Stage of appearance |
Chromosomes appear in M phase. |
Chromatids appear in the interphase. |
Function |
Chromosomes carry and distribute the genetic material. |
Chromatids are involved in metabolism and other cellular activities, allow cells to duplicate |
Macromolecule Synthesis |
DNA is not used. |
DNA is used. |