Chromosome

How it is used

Used in genetics, cytology and medicine. Key phrases: sex chromosomes (X and Y), homologous chromosomes, chromosome number and chromosomal abnormality. Chromosomes become visible under a light microscope when the cell divides.

Example sentences

1. Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.

2. During meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments.

Common collocations

• sex chromosome
• homologous chromosomes
• chromosome number
• X chromosome
• chromosomal abnormality

Related terms

• DNAShort for deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that stores genetic information in every cell and in many viruses. It is made of two strands twisted into a double helix.
• geneA section of DNA that carries the instructions for making a particular protein or functional RNA. Genes are the basic units of heredity passed from parents to offspring.
• mitosisA type of cell division in which one cell produces two daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes and the same genetic information as the parent cell.
• meiosisA type of cell division that produces four cells, each with half the usual number of chromosomes. It makes the sex cells (gametes) and creates genetic variety.
• genomeThe complete set of genetic material in an organism or cell, including all of its genes and the DNA between them.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

• chromosome · Genetics & Biotechnology

More terms: Genetics and Heredity

• trait
• mutation
• allele
• genotype
• phenotype
• dominant
• recessive
• inherit
• RNA
• nucleotide
• gene expression
• transcription