Question

Crossing over during meiosis can separate linked genes. This process demonstrates that:

Options

• Physical linkage on a chromosome can be disrupted by recombination

• All genes are located independently on different chromosomes

• Linked genes can never be separated

• Crossing over only occurs in females

Answer 1

Crossing over (homologous recombination) during meiosis exchanges genetic material between homologous chromosomes, which can separate genes that are physically linked on the same chromosome. This explains why linked genes show partial independent assortment through the generation of recombinant gametes, allowing for genetic diversity despite physical linkage.