Question

The physical basis for the independent assortment of alleles when gametes are formed is

a.) the independent replication of chromosomes during interphase.
b.) the independent alignment of homologous pairs during metaphase I.
c.) the random combination of gametes during fertilization.
the independent formation of chiasmata during the first meiotic division.
d.) the independent alignment of sister chromatids during metaphase I.

Answer 1

The physical basis for the independent assortment of alleles when gametes are formed is the random alignment of homologous chromosomes during meiosis I, which allows for unique combinations of paternal and maternal chromosomes in gametes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The physical basis for the law of independent assortment in the formation of gametes lies in meiosis I, where different homologous pairs randomly align. This random alignment of homologous chromosomes on the metaphase plane allows for any combination of paternal and maternal chromosomes to be present in gametes. This results in unique combinations of chromosomes and genetic variation in offspring.