What does the Law of Independent Assortment explain?

The Law of Independent Assortment explains how different genes independently separate from one another during the formation of gametes. This principle, discovered by Gregor Mendel, states that the segregation of alleles for one gene occurs independently of the segregation of alleles for another gene. As a result, an offspring's genetic makeup can exhibit a combination of traits inherited from both parents without being affected by the alleles of other genes.

This law is crucial for understanding genetic variation, as it allows for the possibility of new trait combinations in offspring. For example, if a pea plant has alleles for two traits—seed shape and seed color—the inheritance of one trait does not influence the inheritance of the other. Thus, offspring can be round yellow, round green, wrinkled yellow, or wrinkled green, showcasing a variety of combinations.

Understanding this principle helps explain how traits can be passed down through generations independently of each other, which is foundational in genetics and the study of inheritance patterns.