What are chromatids?

Chromatids refer specifically to the two identical halves of a replicated chromosome that are joined together at a region known as the centromere. When a cell prepares to divide, each chromosome is duplicated, resulting in two sister chromatids. These sister chromatids are crucial for ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes during the process of cell division, particularly during mitosis and meiosis.

The centromere serves as the attachment point for spindle fibers, which are essential for the proper separation of the chromatids into the daughter cells. This precise duplication and separation are critical for maintaining genetic stability across cell generations. Understanding chromatids in this context is fundamental to grasping the mechanics of cell division and inheritance.