Chromosomes determine an organism's hereditary traits and are composed of DNA and proteins located within cells. They can be described based on features of their centromere placement and arm length ratios. Karyotyping involves analyzing an individual's full set of chromosomes to identify any abnormalities in number or structure that may be associated with developmental or medical conditions. Several chromosomal disorders result from mutations involving the sex chromosomes or autosomes, leading to characteristic physical and developmental phenotypes.