What is a karyotype?

A karyotype is defined as a visual representation of an individual's chromosomes, which allows for the observation of their number, size, shape, and any structural abnormalities. A karyotype is typically created by photographing the chromosomes during metaphase of cell division, when they are most condensed and visible under a microscope. This visualization is crucial for identifying chromosomal abnormalities that may lead to genetic disorders.

In practice, karyotyping can be used in various applications, such as prenatal diagnosis, cancer research, and studying genetic diseases. By examining the karyotype, geneticists can determine if there are extra, missing, or malformed chromosomes, which can provide insights into an individual's genetic health.

The other choices refer to different biological concepts. For instance, gene sequencing involves determining the precise order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule, while isolating DNA pertains to techniques used to extract DNA from cells. The process of cell division, notably mitosis or meiosis, relates to the method by which cells replicate, but does not specifically define what a karyotype is.