1. Container and carrier of heredity: Chromosomes are the container and carrier of heredity. It contains, carries and transmits the hereditary characteristics of the organism.
2. Cell Division: Chromosomes play a direct role in cell division. A cell that does not contain chromosomes does not divide. Primary cells do not contain chromosomes.
3. Containing DNA: The smallest part of chromosome is DNA. The entire segment of chromosome contains DNA.
4. Protein synthesis: Chromosomes contain DNA. mRNA is made from DNA. The translation process of mRNA leads to protein synthesis.
5. Sex determination: Sex chromosomes determine the sex of the organism. If the sex chromosome is XY, it is male and if it is XX, it is female.
6. Blue print of life: Genes are carriers of heredity and act as the blue print of life. The blue print is located on the chromosome.
7. Evolution: Changes in the number and structure of chromosomes play a role in evolution.
8. Creation of Variation: Structural and numerical changes in chromosomes create variation in organisms.
9. Shape of Nucleus: Chromosomes shape the nucleus.
10. Production of nuclear material: Chromosomes produce nuclear material.
11. Carrying genetic messages: Chromosomes contain mRNA. mRNA carries the genetic message in the cytoplasm.
12. Self-reorganization: Chromosomes are self-reorganizing.