Question

How does the position of centromere form the basis of classification of chromosomes. Support your answer with a diagram showing the position of centromere on different types of chromosomes.

Answer 1

Another name for the centromere is main constriction. The kinetochore, a disc-shaped structure, is located on its side. Based on where the centromere is located on the chromosome, there are four different types of chromosomes.

1. Metacentric chromosome: The centromere is located in the centre of this chromosome, and the lengths of the two arms are about equal.
2. Submetacentric chromosome: One arm is marginally shorter than the other due to the centromere's modest distance from the centre point.
3. Acrocentric chromosome: One arm is incredibly short and the other is incredibly long, and the centromere is located close to the end.
4. Telocentric chromosome: The chromosome's apex is called the centromere. Humans do not have these chromosomes.