Final answer:
There is a significant difference in chromosome condensation between interphase and metaphase; with interphase having relaxed chromatin forms (euchromatin and heterochromatin), and metaphase featuring maximally condensed chromosomes to facilitate cell division.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relative difference between the levels of chromosome condensation in interphase and in metaphase is substantial. During interphase, DNA is in a more relaxed state, with varying levels of condensation. Chromatin exists in two main forms, euchromatin, which is less condensed and where genes are actively being expressed, and heterochromatin, which is more condensed and generally silences gene expression.
By contrast, during metaphase, a phase of both mitosis and meiosis, the chromosomes are maximally condensed, organized, and aligned at the metaphase plate. This level of organization and condensation is necessary for the accurate segregation of chromosomes during cell division. The process includes the condensation of chromatin into highly compact structures, which is critical for the microtubules of the mitotic spindle to effectively attach to kinetochores and segregate chromosomes to opposite poles of the cell.
The main reason for this drastic difference is that highly condensed chromosomes are easier for the cell to manage and ensure accurate and equitable distribution of genetic material to the daughter cells. This level of condensation is not necessary outside of cell division, hence the relaxation during interphase.