Final answer:
Mendel's law of independent assortment states that genes do not influence each other in terms of allele sorting, allowing for every possible combination of alleles in gametes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mendel's Law of Independent Assortment asserts that genes exhibit no mutual influence during the sorting of alleles into gametes.
According to this principle, every conceivable combination of alleles for each gene has an equal likelihood of occurring.
The concept of independent assortment is vividly demonstrated through dihybrid crosses, involving the mating of two true-breeding parents expressing distinct traits for two characteristics.
A classic example in pea plants showcases the independent inheritance of seed color and seed texture.
The law highlights that the segregation of alleles for one trait does not impact the segregation of alleles for another trait, emphasizing the random assortment of genes during the formation of gametes.
Mendel's insight into independent assortment significantly contributed to the foundational understanding of genetic inheritance and paved the way for subsequent advancements in the field of genetics.