Basis of differentiation 

Inversion 

Translocation 

Definition 

Is a type of chromosomal rearrangement in which a chromosome segment breaks off, flips 180 degrees, and reattaches to the chromosome at the same location

Is a type of chromosomal rearrangement in which parts of non-homologous chromosomes are exchanged between each other

Location of rejoining 

Occurs in the same location within the same chromosome

The location of the DNA fragment changes between chromosomes

Number of chromosomes involved

Involves only one chromosome

Involves two chromosomes

Significance

Changes the orientation of a segment of a chromosome

Interchanges parts of chromosomes between non-homologous chromosomes

Change in chromosome size

Chromosome size remains the same

Chromosome size changes

Chromosomal imbalance

Chromosome rearrangement is balanced as there is no extra or missing DNA

May be balanced or unbalanced 

Types 

May be paracentric or pericentric

May be reciprocal or Robertsonian

Harmful effects or abnormalities

Does not cause abnormalities

Can cause abnormalities such as Down syndrome, cancer, or infertility