The shorter and longer arm of a submetacentric chromosome are referred to as ____.
A. m-arm and n-arm respectively
B. q-arm and p-arm respectively
C. p-arm and q-arm respectively
D. s-arm and l-arm respectively
Answer (2)
In a submetacentric chromosome, the shorter arm is called the 'p-arm' and the longer arm is called the 'q-arm'. The 'p' stands for petite meaning small, while 'q' is simply used to denote the longer arm. Thus, the answer is option C.
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The shorter and longer arms of a submetacentric chromosome are typically referred to as the p-arm and q-arm, respectively. Therefore, the correct answer is option (C).
In the field of genetics and cytogenetics, chromosomes are best described by the placement of their centromere, which divides the chromosome into two sections, or 'arms.'
Metacentric Chromosomes have the centromere located near the middle, making both arms approximately equal in length.
Submetacentric Chromosomes have the centromere placed slightly off-center, leading to one arm being somewhat shorter than the other.
The shorter arm is designated as the p-arm , derived from the French word 'petit,' meaning small.
The longer arm is called the q-arm. The reason for the choice of the letter 'q' is less clear, but it follows 'p' alphabetically.
Acrocentric Chromosomes have the centromere very close to one end, producing a very short arm and a much longer arm.
Telocentric Chromosomes have the centromere at the very end, thereby appearing to have only one arm.
These designations for chromosome arms are essential for describing chromosomal abnormalities, mapping genes, and conducting genetic research, assisting researchers and medical professionals by providing clear and consistent terminology.
