Question

Which of the following statements is true regarding Mendel's law of independent assortment?

• A. It applies only to genes located on the same chromosome.
• B. It explains the inheritance of traits that are polygenic.
• C. It is based on the random alignment of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I.
• D. It does not apply to dihybrid crosses.

Hint:

Recall that independent assortment occurs due to the random orientation of chromosome pairs during meiosis, leading to genetic variation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

- Mendel's law of independent assortment states that alleles of different genes assort independently during gamete formation. 
- This is explained by the random alignment of homologous chromosome pairs during metaphase I of meiosis, which leads to independent segregation, making (C) correct. 
- (A) is incorrect because independent assortment applies mainly to genes on different chromosomes or those far apart on the same chromosome. 
- (B) polygenic inheritance involves multiple genes influencing a trait, which is separate from independent assortment, so (B) is incorrect. 
- (D) is incorrect because the law of independent assortment is demonstrated using dihybrid crosses. 
 Answer: \(\boxed{\text{C}}\)