Final answer:
A chromosome with the centromere positioned slightly off the center of the sister chromatids is called submetacentric. This type of chromosome becomes visible during cell division, where each sister chromatid attaches to spindle fibers at their respective centromeres, preparing for separation into daughter cells.
A chromosome that is ___ submetacentric___ has the centromere positioned slightly off the the center of the sister chromatids.
Step-by-step explanation:
A chromosome that is submetacentric has the centromere positioned slightly off the center of the sister chromatids. During the cell cycle, DNA replicates in the S phase of interphase. After replication, the chromosomes are composed of two linked sister chromatids, which become visible under a light microscope when they are fully compacted. The centromeric region is highly condensed and will appear as a constricted area, helping to distinguish the different types of chromosomes based on the location of the centromere.
During cell division, specifically metaphase, chromosomes consisting of sister chromatids line up at the equator of the cell with the kinetochores facing opposite poles. The individual kinetochore of each sister chromatid attaches to microtubules coming from opposite poles of the cell, ensuring that each new daughter cell will receive one copy of each chromosome when the sister chromatids are eventually pulled apart in anaphase.