Final answer:
Chromosomes are sorted into four categories based on where their centromere is located: metacentric, submetacentric, acrocentric, and telocentric.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chromosomes are classified into four types based on their centromere location, which can be identified during cell division when the chromosomes are condensed:
- Metacentric: The centromere is near the middle.
- Submetacentric: The centromere is slightly off center.
- Acrocentric: The centromere is closer to the end than to the center.
- Telocentric: The centromere is at one end.
In humans and other species, chromosomes are classified by their size, number, and banding patterns, with autosomes arranged from largest to smallest. The human karyotype includes 22 pairs of autosomes and the sex chromosomes X and Y. Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids, connected at the centromere. During mitosis, this structure is crucial for the proper attachment of spindle fibers to ensure accurate segregation of chromosomes to daughter cells.