Question

Distinguish between Chromatin and Chromosome.

Answer 1

The DNA and associated proteins make up chromatin which is situated in the nucleus of the cell. The chromatin condenses to form chromosomes. The compression helps the DNA to fit into the nucleus of the cell.

Complete answer:

Chromatin	Chromosome
1. Made up of nucleosomes.	1. Condensed chromatin fibres.
2. They are unpaired.	2. They are paired.
3. They can be seen under an electron microscope.	3. They can be seen under a light microscope.
4. The chromatin structure is long, thin and uncoiled.	4. The structure of chromosomes is thick, compact and ribbon-like.
5. Chromatin helps in DNA replication and RNA synthesis.	5. No metabolic activity is evident in chromosomes.
6. It is present throughout the cell cycle.	6. It is only visible during the cell division.
7. Size of chromatin is approximately 10nm.	7. Size is 1->20 um approximately.
8. The chromatin fibres condense during the cell division process to form chromosomes.	8. DNA is the hereditary material which is passed on from one generation to the next.

Note: Chromatin is only found in eukaryotic cells and helps in the packaging of DNA double helix. It protects DNA from any damage, helps in replication of DNA and prevents their entanglement. Chromosomes, on the other hand, carry genetic information in the form of DNA.