Chromatid

A chromatid is one half of a duplicated chromosome. When a cell prepares to divide, its chromosomes make copies of themselves, so each chromosome consists of two identical parts called chromatids, connected at a central point called the centromere. During cell division, these chromatids separate to ensure that each new cell receives an identical set of genetic information. In essence, chromatids are crucial for the accurate distribution of DNA to daughter cells, playing a key role in growth, development, and tissue repair in living organisms.