Final answer:
Karyotyping is a method used to observe an individual's chromosomes. Cells are collected and stimulated to divide, and the chromosomes are arrested and spread apart using various techniques. The chromosomes are then observed and photographed to create a karyotype.
Step-by-step explanation:
Karyotyping is a technique used to observe and analyze an individual's chromosomes. To perform a karyotype, cells are first collected from a blood sample or other tissue. The cells are then stimulated to divide, and a chemical called colchicine is applied to arrest the chromosomes in metaphase. The chromosomes are spread apart by swelling the cells with a hypotonic solution. Finally, the chromosomes are preserved and applied to a slide for microscopic observation and photographing.