Question

When can alleles from linked genes be inherited independently

A. When alleles on the X chromosome move to the Y chromosome
B. When alleles travel up and down a chromosome to switch places
C. when alleles select two different chromosomes to be inherited on
D. when crossing over causes alleles to switch between homologous chromosomes

Answer 1

Alleles from linked genes can be inherited independently when crossing over occurs between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, which separates genes that were previously linked.

Step-by-step explanation:

Alleles from linked genes can be inherited independently due to the process of crossing over during meiosis. This phenomenon occurs when homologous chromosomes exchange segments, thereby separating genes that were previously on the same chromosome and allowing them to be inherited separately. Linked genes are closer together on a chromosome, meaning they are usually passed on together, but crossing over can disrupt this linkage if it happens between them. The higher the frequency of crossing over, the more likely it is for the alleles to be inherited independently.

Thus, among the options given, the correct answer is D. when crossing over causes alleles to switch between homologous chromosomes.

Answer 2

Answer: When genes are found on different chromosomes or far apart on the same chromosome, they assort independently and are said to be unlinked.

When genes are close together on the same chromosome, they are said to be linked. That means the alleles, or gene versions, already together on one chromosome will be inherited as a unit more frequently than not.

We can see if two genes are linked, and how tightly, by using data from genetic crosses to calculate the recombination frequency.

By finding recombination frequencies for many gene pairs, we can make linkage maps that show the order and relative distances of the genes on the chromosome.

Step-by-step explanation: