Question

The factors for a character will segregate equally and pass on to each gamete uncontaminated. This is Mendel's ______________

• A. Law of segregation
• B. Law of independent assortment
• C. Principle of dominance
• D. Principle of unit character

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

• According to the law of dominance, a trait is represented by two contrasting factors of a gene in a heterozygous individual; the allele/factor that can express itself in a heterozygous individual is called as a dominant trait. The other factor whose effect is masked by the presence of a dominant factor is called recessive factor. It does not tell about gametes.
• The law of segregation states that the two factors for a trait, present together in a heterozygous individual, do not get mixed and are separated during gametogenesis.
• Thus each gamete receives one allele for a trait and two types of gametes are formed; 50% gametes carry factor for dominance and 50% carry the recessive factor.
• Law of independent assortment tells about segregation and distribution of factors governing two different traits; not about segregation of factors of one trait.
• The principle of unit factor tells about the presence of two alternative forms of a gene governing each character of organisms.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.