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Multiple Choice
Which of the following correctly lists the structures involved in chromosome packing from least to most condensed?
A
DNA double helix → nucleosome → chromatin fiber → chromosome
B
Chromosome → chromatin fiber → nucleosome → DNA double helix
C
Chromatin fiber → nucleosome → DNA double helix → chromosome
D
Nucleosome → DNA double helix → chromatin fiber → chromosome
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the hierarchical organization of DNA packing in eukaryotic cells. DNA is compacted into chromosomes through several levels of structural organization.
Start with the least condensed form, which is the DNA double helix. This is the basic structure of DNA, consisting of two strands wound around each other.
Next, recognize that DNA wraps around histone proteins to form nucleosomes. Nucleosomes are the first level of DNA compaction and resemble 'beads on a string.'
After nucleosomes, the structure further condenses into chromatin fibers. These fibers are formed by the coiling and folding of nucleosomes into a more compact structure.
Finally, chromatin fibers are further condensed and organized into chromosomes, which are the most compact form of DNA, visible during cell division.