Final answer:
Translocation is a chromosomal event where a chromosome segment reattaches to a different, non-homologous chromosome, which can lead to genetic disorders if it results in gene duplications or deletions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Translocation occurs when part of a chromosome breaks off and then reattaches to a different, non-homologous chromosome. Although some individuals may not exhibit any adverse effects because they still have all their genes, albeit rearranged, genetic disorders can arise if this process results in the duplication or deletion of genes. Reciprocal translocations involve the exchange of chromosome segments between two non-homologous chromosomes without any net gain or loss of genetic information. This can be benign, but certain translocations are associated with cancers and schizophrenia, indicating that the consequences depend on how genes are repositioned relative to regulatory sequences.