To "read" a set of chromosomes, scientists use three key features to identify their similarities and differences:
Size. This is the easiest way to tell chromosomes apart.
Banding pattern. The size and location of Giemsa bands make each chromosome unique.
Centromere position. Centromeres appear as a constriction. They have a role in the separation of chromosomes into daughter cells during cell division (mitosis and meiosis).
Using these key features, scientists can identify all 46 chromosomes — one set of 23 from each parent