Difference between Chromosome and Chromatid - Testbook.com

It's a given that most of us are aware of chromosomes - the thread-like structures that reside in the nucleus of all living organisms. But have you ever wondered what a chromatid is? In this article, we strive to clarify the concept and highlight the differences between Chromosomes and Chromatids.

Distinguishing Chromosomes and Chromatids

A chromosome, the genetic blueprint of an organism, houses all the traits and characteristics. The term 'chromosome' is derived from the Greek words “Chroma” and “Soma”, meaning “color” and “body” respectively. Interestingly, a chromosome comprises two identical strands known as Chromatids. The key differences between a Chromosome and a Chromatid are outlined below.

Chromosome vs Chromatid
Chromosome	Chromatid
Carries the genetic material	Facilitates cell duplication
Present throughout the cell’s life cycle	Formed only during mitosis or meiosis stages
Not exact copies of each other. Genes inherited from both parents	Sister Chromatids are identical copies
Possesses centromeres	Centromere exclusively present in sister chromatids
DNA utilized during macromolecule synthesis (complex protein synthesis)	DNA not utilized during macromolecule synthesis

In Conclusion

A chromosome is constituted by two identical sister chromatids, joined at the centromere. Each chromosome is inherited from both parents, accounting for the inherited traits and characteristics in their offspring.

Further Reading:

Cell Division

Cells