QQuestionAnatomy and Physiology
QuestionAnatomy and Physiology
Which of the following statements best describes the law of independent assortment?
A. The alleles for traits do not separate, so gametes do not carry the same genes.
B. The alleles for different traits do not separate, but are passed on as a group of alleles.
C. The alleles for different traits separate and are inherited independently of each other.
D. Paired alleles are separated during meiosis so that the haploid gametes carry only one of the alleles for a trait.
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this genetics problem step by step:
Step 2:: Understand Mendel's Law of Independent Assortment
The law of independent assortment is a fundamental principle of genetics first described by Gregor Mendel. This law explains how different genes are inherited independently of each other during the formation of gametes.
Step 3:: Analyze the Key Characteristics of Independent Assortment
- Different traits are inherited separately - The inheritance of one trait does not affect the inheritance of another trait - During meiosis, alleles for different traits are randomly distributed to gametes
Step 4:: Evaluate Each Option Carefully
Option A: Incorrect. This statement contradicts the actual mechanism of allele separation. Option B: Incorrect. This statement suggests that alleles are not separated, which is the opposite of independent assortment. Option C: Correct. This statement precisely describes the law of independent assortment: - "Alleles for different traits separate" ✓ - "Inherited independently of each other" ✓ Option D: Partially correct, but not the best description of independent assortment. While alleles do separate during meiosis, this statement focuses more on meiosis itself rather than the broader principle of independent inheritance.
Final Answer
The alleles for different traits separate and are inherited independently of each other. Key Insight: Mendel's law of independent assortment explains how different genes can be combined in various ways during sexual reproduction, leading to genetic diversity.
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