What is the Difference Between DNA and Chromosome?

DNA and chromosomes are essential components of an organism's genetic material, but they have different structures and functions. Here are the key differences between them:

DNA:

• DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the chemical form that stores genetic information.
• Made up of nucleotide monomers containing four nitrogenous bases: guanine, adenine, cytosine, and thymine.
• DNA is the molecule that holds the instruction manual for life, controlling the growth and function of cells.

Chromosomes:

• Chromosomes are long chains of DNA molecules that contain part or all of an organism's genetic material.
• Made up of DNA and histone proteins in eukaryotes, and DNA plus non-histone proteins in prokaryotes.
• Chromosomes are bundles of tightly coiled DNA located within the nucleus of almost every cell in our body.
• Humans have 46 chromosomes in their somatic (non-reproductive) cells, inheriting one set of 23 chromosomes from each parent.

In summary, DNA is the molecule that stores genetic information, while chromosomes are the structures that contain and organize the DNA within cells. Chromosomes are made up of DNA and histone proteins, and they play a crucial role in managing and protecting an organism's genetic material.

Comparative Table: DNA vs Chromosome

Here is a table highlighting the differences between DNA and chromosomes:

In summary, DNA is the chemical form that stores genetic information, while chromosomes are thread-like structures containing condensed DNA double helixes along with histone or non-histone proteins. DNA is the building block of chromosomes, and chromosomes are the structures within cells that house an organism's genetic material.