The result of independent assortment is gametes that each contain _____.

• A. a unique combination of alleles from each parent
• B. chromosomes that are all from one parent
• C. identical sets of chromosomes as the parent cell
• D. only dominant alleles from both parents

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the principle of independent assortment, which states that alleles of different genes are distributed independently of one another during gamete formation.
2. Recall that during meiosis, homologous chromosomes are separated so that each gamete receives one chromosome from each pair, leading to different combinations of alleles.
3. Recognize that because of this independent segregation, gametes end up with unique combinations of alleles from both parents rather than identical sets or only dominant alleles.
4. Eliminate options that suggest gametes contain chromosomes all from one parent or identical to the parent cell, as meiosis reduces chromosome number and mixes parental alleles.
5. Conclude that the correct description of the result of independent assortment is that gametes contain a unique combination of alleles from each parent.