Chromosomes are structures found within cells that carry genetic information. There are three main types - viral, prokaryotic, and eukaryotic. Eukaryotic chromosomes are found within the cell nucleus and are made of DNA and proteins. They vary in number, size, shape and other characteristics between different species. The cell cycle involves growth and DNA replication during interphase, followed by nuclear division through mitosis and cytoplasmic division through cytokinesis.