What is the physical basis for the independent assortment of alleles into offspring?
a. There are chromosome divisions during gamete production.
b. Homologous chromosome pairs are separated during gamete production.
c. Sperm and eggs are produced by different sexes.
d. Each gene codes for more than one protein.
e. The instruction manual for producing a human is incomplete.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of independent assortment: Independent assortment refers to the random distribution of homologous chromosome pairs into gametes during meiosis. This principle is one of Mendel's laws of inheritance.
2. Recall the process of meiosis: During meiosis, homologous chromosomes (one from each parent) are separated into different gametes. This separation occurs during Anaphase I of meiosis.
3. Relate independent assortment to homologous chromosomes: The random alignment of homologous chromosome pairs at the metaphase plate during Metaphase I ensures that the separation of one pair does not influence the separation of another pair. This randomness is the physical basis for independent assortment.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Options such as 'Sperm and eggs are produced by different sexes' (c), 'Each gene codes for more than one protein' (d), and 'The instruction manual for producing a human is incomplete' (e) are unrelated to the process of independent assortment.
5. Identify the correct answer: The correct explanation is that homologous chromosome pairs are separated during gamete production, which corresponds to option (b). This separation ensures the independent assortment of alleles into offspring.

Key Concepts

Independent Assortment

Independent assortment is a fundamental principle of genetics that describes how alleles of different genes segregate independently of one another during the formation of gametes. This process occurs during meiosis, where homologous chromosomes are separated into different gametes, allowing for genetic variation in offspring.

Meiosis

Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of gametes (sperm and eggs). During meiosis, homologous chromosomes undergo recombination and are then separated, which is crucial for the independent assortment of alleles and contributes to genetic diversity.

Homologous Chromosomes

Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent, that have the same genes at the same loci but may carry different alleles. During meiosis, these chromosomes are aligned and separated, ensuring that each gamete receives a mix of maternal and paternal alleles, which is essential for independent assortment.