Chromatids are structures found inside cells that are formed during DNA replication in preparation for cell division. They are one half of a duplicated chromosome, and before replication, one chromosome is composed of one DNA molecule. In replication, the DNA molecule is copied, and the two molecules are known as chromatids. Chromatids are condensed chromosomes distinguishable during cell division, and those that are joined together at the centromere and carry identical copies of DNA molecules are called "sister chromatids". During cell division, spindle fibers attach to the centromere and pull each of the sister chromatids to opposite sides of the cell. Soon after, the cell divides in two, resulting in daughter cells with identical DNA. Chromatids serve several important functions in cell division, contributing to the accurate transmission of genetic material to daughter cells. Here are the detailed functions of chromatids:

• Transmission of Genetic Information: Chromatids are responsible for carrying and transmitting genetic information in the form of DNA. Each chromatid contains a complete copy of the DNA molecule, including all the genes necessary for the development and functioning of the organism.

• Separation of Chromosomes: During cell division, chromatids separate from each other and move to opposite poles of the cell. This ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes.

• Formation of Chromosomes: Chromatids are the condensed, replicated chromosomes palpable during cell division. In most eukaryotes, including humans, each chromosome is made up of two chromatids joined at the centromere.

• Homologous Recombination: In meiosis, following the first round of cell division, homologous recombination occurs, in which genes are exchanged between a maternal chromatid and a paternal chromatid of a homologous chromosome pair. Following a second round of cell division, four haploid daughter cells are produced; thus, each new cell contains only one chromatid, or half of the complete chromosome complement.

• Chromatid Aberrations: Chromatids can be affected by various aberrations, resulting in significant genetic and cellular defects. For example, failure of chromatids to separate properly during cell division can result in an incorrect chromosome number in affected daughter cells, leading to aneuploidy.