Alleles of different genes are distributed to gametes independently when the genes lie on separate chromosomes.
In a dihybrid cross the allele of one gene goes to a gamete independently of the allele of another. This works for genes on different chromosomes or far apart on the same one.
Gametes from AaBb are AB, Ab, aB and ab in equal numbers, giving a 9:3:3:1 phenotype ratio.
Common mistake: the law does not hold for linked genes, which tend to travel together.
Alleles of different genes are distributed to gametes independently when the genes lie on separate chromosomes.
Law of Independent Assortment is one of the 54 topics in Genetics. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Dihybrid Cross, Law of Segregation, Punnett Squares.
Law of Independent Assortment is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Genetics that pair well with it include Heredity, Gene, Allele.
The closest topics to Law of Independent Assortment are Dihybrid Cross, Law of Segregation, Punnett Squares, Monohybrid Cross. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Law of Independent Assortment. To practise the whole of Genetics, use the Genetics quiz.
Law of Independent Assortment: Alleles of different genes are distributed to gametes independently when the genes lie on separate chromosomes. Dihybrid Cross: A cross following two genes at once, giving a 9:3:3:1 phenotype ratio when genes assort independently. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
The law does not hold for linked genes, which tend to travel together.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Dihybrid Cross and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Genetics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
A cross following two genes at once, giving a 9:3:3:1 phenotype ratio when genes assort independently.
🧬 GeneticsThe two alleles for a trait separate during gamete formation so each gamete carries only one.
🧬 GeneticsA grid used to predict the possible genotypes and probabilities of offspring from a cross.
🧬 GeneticsA cross following one gene with two alleles, giving a 3:1 phenotype ratio in the F2 generation.
🧬 Genetics