Independent assortment is a fundamental principle of genetics that describes how different genes independently separate from one another when reproductive cells develop. This principle was first articulated by Gregor Mendel in the 19th century based on his studies of pea plants.
According to the law of independent assortment, the alleles for one trait segregate independently of the alleles for another trait when gametes are formed. This means that the inheritance of one trait will not affect the inheritance of another trait, provided that the genes controlling those traits are on different chromosomes or are far apart on the same chromosome.
For example, consider two traits: seed shape (round or wrinkled) and seed color (yellow or green). The alleles for these two traits assort independently during the formation of gametes, leading to various combinations of traits in the offspring.
Overall, independent assortment contributes to genetic variation within a population, as it allows for new combinations of traits to occur in the offspring.
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