Which chromosome is the shortest in humans?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the PLTW Biomedical Science Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which chromosome is the shortest in humans?

Explanation:
Chromosome length varies across the human genome, with some chromosomes containing more DNA than others. The shortest chromosome by base-pair length is chromosome 21, which is why it’s frequently linked to Down syndrome—the condition arises when an individual has an extra copy of this comparatively small chromosome. The other options are longer in DNA content, so they are not the shortest. In short, chromosome 21 is the shortest in humans by DNA length.

Chromosome length varies across the human genome, with some chromosomes containing more DNA than others. The shortest chromosome by base-pair length is chromosome 21, which is why it’s frequently linked to Down syndrome—the condition arises when an individual has an extra copy of this comparatively small chromosome. The other options are longer in DNA content, so they are not the shortest. In short, chromosome 21 is the shortest in humans by DNA length.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy