Question

As a cell begins the process of dividing, its chromosomes become shorter, thicker, and individually visible in an LM. Explain what is happening at the molecular level.

a) During cell division, the chromosomes condense as they coil more tightly. This condensation is facilitated by the binding of histone proteins to DNA, resulting in a compact and visible structure.
b) As the cell divides, chromosomes elongate to facilitate their separation into daughter cells. This process is driven by the unraveling of DNA and increased chromatin flexibility.
c) Chromosomes become shorter and thicker due to the accumulation of extra DNA material, which is necessary for cell division. This process is essential for generating genetic diversity.
d) The molecular changes in chromosomes during cell division are not well understood, and further research is needed to elucidate this phenomenon.

Answer 1

During cell division, chromosomes condense as they coil tightly due to the binding of histone proteins to DNA. The degree of DNA coiling determines the appearance of chromosomes. Chromosomes are formed when chromatin coils up tightly before cell division.

Step-by-step explanation:

During cell division, the chromosomes condense as they coil more tightly. This condensation is facilitated by the binding of histone proteins to DNA, resulting in a compact and visible structure. The degree of DNA coiling determines whether the chromosome strands are short and thick or long and thin. Before the cell divides, the chromatin coils up more tightly and forms chromosomes. Only chromosomes stain clearly enough to be seen under a microscope.