Final answer:
In eukaryotes, DNA is packaged by wrapping it around histones to form nucleosomes and then compacting them into 30-nm fibers. The compacted chromosomes are associated with scaffold proteins.
Step-by-step explanation:
In eukaryotes, DNA is packaged by wrapping it around proteins called histones to form structures called nucleosomes. Histones are proteins rich in basic amino acids and form an octamer core around which DNA is tightly wrapped. This nucleosome structure is further compacted into a 30-nm fiber, which shortens the chromosome. The compacted chromosomes are found in association with scaffold proteins.