What is a karyotype?

A karyotype is indeed defined as a picture of all the chromosomes in a cell arranged in pairs. This visual representation allows scientists and geneticists to examine the chromosomal composition of an organism, identifying any potential chromosomal abnormalities or variations. Each chromosome in a karyotype is organized by size and shape, with homologous chromosomes (the pairs) arranged next to one another. This arrangement makes it easier to compare chromosomes and to see how many there are, which is crucial for understanding an individual's genetic makeup and diagnosing genetic disorders.

Understanding the structure and organization of chromosomes through a karyotype helps in various genetic studies, including those aimed at identifying conditions like Down syndrome, which is associated with an extra copy of chromosome 21.