Which law indicates that different genes and their alleles are inherited independently in sexually reproducing organisms?

Study for the USTET Science Test. Enhance your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

The law that indicates different genes and their alleles are inherited independently in sexually reproducing organisms is known as the Law of Independent Assortment. This principle, first outlined by Gregor Mendel based on his pea plant experiments, asserts that the alleles for different traits segregate independently during the formation of gametes. As a result, the inheritance of one trait generally does not affect the inheritance of another trait.

Mendel's observations showed that the inheritance patterns for different traits (like seed shape and flower color) were not linked and followed their own independent distribution, leading to a variety of combinations in offspring. This independence allows for greater genetic variation and complexity in sexually reproducing organisms, which is fundamental to evolution and adaptation.

The other options pertain to different aspects of genetic inheritance. The Law of Segregation focuses specifically on how alleles for a single trait segregate during gamete formation. The Law of Independent Segregation is not a recognized principle in classical genetics, as it is synonymous with independent assortment but is not the historically accepted term. The Law of Gene Interaction addresses how different genes can interact to affect a single trait, rather than their independent inheritance. Hence, the Law of Independent Assortment best encapsulates the idea

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy