Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Chromatin, the complex of DNA and protein in the nucleus, exists in two main states: euchromatin and heterochromatin, which differ in their level of condensation and transcriptional activity.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's evaluate the statements about Euchromatin:
(A) Highly condensed: Incorrect. Euchromatin is the less condensed, or decondensed, form of chromatin. Heterochromatin is highly condensed.
(B) Associated with active transcription: Correct. The open, relaxed structure of euchromatin allows transcription machinery to access the DNA, making the genes within these regions transcriptionally active.
(C) Found outside nucleus only: Incorrect. All chromatin, including euchromatin, is located inside the nucleus.
(D) Does not replicate during S phase: Incorrect. All genomic DNA is replicated during the S phase. Euchromatin typically replicates early in the S phase.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct statement about euchromatin is that it is associated with active transcription.