Question

Although the law of independent assortment is generally applicable, when two loci are on the same chromosome the phenotypes of the progeny sometimes do not fit the phenotypes predicted. This is due to

a. inversions.
b. chromatid affinities.
c. reciprocal chromosomal exchanges.
d. linkage.
e. translocation.

Answer 1

The deviation from Mendel's law of independent assortment when two loci are on the same chromosome is due to linkage. This linkage can be overcome by recombination events, especially if the genes are far apart on the chromosome. Therefore, the correct option is D.

Step-by-step explanation:

When two loci are on the same chromosome, the phenotypes of the progeny sometimes do not fit the predictions of Mendel's law of independent assortment due to linkage. Linkage occurs when genes that are physically close to each other on the same chromosome are inherited together because they do not assort independently. However, recombination or 'crossover' can cause these linked genes to behave independently, especially if they are far apart on the chromosome, as recombination events can occur in the intervening chromosomal space.