What is the role of chromosomes in cell division?

Chromosomes contain the DNA of a cell. When a cell divides, the chromosomes must replicate. There are two types of cell division. Chromosomes undergo a different process depending on the type of cell division. It is important that the chromosomes replicate properly so that each cell has the correct amount of DNA after division.

Chromosomes are tightly packed structures that contain the DNA of a cell wrapped around a protein. They are found in the nucleus of the cell. All cells, with the exception of the egg and sperm, have 46 chromosomes. Sex cells have 23 chromosomes, so when they combine, they end up with the usual 46.