Which statement best explains why chromosomes, rather than individual genes, assort independently during meiosis?

• A. Because chromosomes are identical and always carry the same genes.
• B. Because genes located on the same chromosome tend to be inherited together unless separated by crossing over.
• C. Because genes on different chromosomes cannot undergo recombination.
• D. Because each gene is always inherited independently of its chromosomal location.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of independent assortment, which states that genes located on different chromosomes are inherited independently of each other during meiosis.
2. Recognize that chromosomes, not individual genes, are the units that segregate independently during meiosis I, because homologous chromosome pairs align and separate independently.
3. Recall that genes located close together on the same chromosome tend to be inherited together because they are physically linked, unless crossing over occurs between them.
4. Note that crossing over during prophase I of meiosis can separate linked genes, allowing for recombination and independent inheritance of genes on the same chromosome.
5. Conclude that chromosomes assort independently because whole chromosomes segregate independently, but genes on the same chromosome may not assort independently unless crossing over separates them.