Question

Which of the following is the meaning of the chromosome theory of inheritance as expressed in the early 20th century?

Question 2 options:

Individuals inherit particular chromosomes attached to genes.

Mendelian genes are at specific loci on the chromosome and in turn segregate during meiosis.

Homologous chromosomes give rise to some genes and crossover chromosomes to other genes.

No more than a single pair of chromosomes can be found in a healthy normal cell.

Natural selection acts on certain chromosome arrays rather than on genes.

Answer 1

The chromosomal theory of inheritance posits that genes are situated on chromosomes, which segregate during meiosis to create inheritance patterns. This explains genetic linkage and how linked genes can affect inheritance differently than those independently assorted.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chromosomal theory of inheritance, as expressed in the early 20th century, states that genes are located on chromosomes and that the behavior of chromosomes during meiosis is responsible for inheritance patterns observed by Mendel. The theory was proposed by Sutton and Boveri after observing that chromosomes are necessary for proper embryonic development and that chromosomes segregate into daughter cells during meiosis. This theory helped explain how traits could be inherited and how genetic material is passed from one generation to the next. It also accounts for genetic linkage and recombination, as identified by Thomas Hunt Morgan and his work with Drosophila melanogaster, shedding light on how linked genes can influence inheritance patterns differently from independent traits.