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Cell division - AQAChromosomes and DNA

Chromosomes carry genetic information in a molecule called DNA. A type of cell division called mitosis ensures that when a cell divides each new cell produced has the same genetic information.

Part of Biology (Single Science)Cell biology

Chromosomes and DNA

Chromosomes carry genetic information in a molecule called DNA.

A type of cell division called mitosis ensures that when a cell divides each new cell produced has the same genetic information.

exists in a cell's nucleus within structures called . Each section of a chromosome that contains the code for the production of a particular protein is called a .

A diagram showing the chromosomes and DNA and how they are structures

Each chromosome is made from a single molecule of DNA, but when a cell is ready to divide, the DNA copies itself, then coils and condenses to form the chromosomes that we see in .

Chromosomes carry genetic information in a molecule called DNA.

Each human body cell contains 46 chromosomes. These can be arranged into 23 pairs.

Each chromosome in a pair carries the same types of genes. The 23rd pair are the sex chromosomes:

  • In females, the two chromosomes are identical in shape. There are two X chromosomes. Females are referred to as XX.
  • In males, one of the chromosomes is a different in shape. There is an X and also a Y chromosome. Males are referred to as XY
Diagram showing how male and female chromosomes form

Learn more about DNA and the genome with Dr Alex Lathbridge.

In this podcast, learn the key facts about DNA and the genome. Listen to the full series on 成人快手 Sounds.