A man is heterozygous for two genes (R and L) that are located on different chromosomes. Which of the following processes would result in different combinations of the alleles for these two genes in his sperm?
a) fertilization
b) independent assortment
c) recombination
d) sister chromatid segregation
thank you so much, i've done all the other practice questions but this one i really don't understand!
Look up each term in your text or Google.
To find the answer to this question, we need to understand the processes that can lead to different combinations of alleles in sperm cells. Let's explore each option:
a) Fertilization: Fertilization is the process by which a sperm cell and an egg cell combine to form a zygote. In fertilization, a sperm with a specific combination of alleles from the father's genome fuses with an egg that carries a specific combination of alleles from the mother's genome. Fertilization does not change the combination of alleles within the sperm itself.
b) Independent Assortment: During independent assortment, homologous chromosomes line up randomly at the metaphase plate during meiosis I. This random alignment can lead to different combinations of alleles in the resulting gametes, including sperm cells. However, in this question, the genes in consideration are located on different chromosomes. So, independent assortment alone would not result in different combinations of alleles for these two genes in the sperm.
c) Recombination: Recombination, also known as genetic recombination or crossing over, occurs during meiosis. It is the process where portions of genetic material between homologous chromosomes are exchanged. This exchange leads to the production of new combinations of alleles in the gametes, including sperm cells.
d) Sister Chromatid Segregation: Sister chromatid segregation refers to the separation of sister chromatids during meiosis II. This process ensures that each daughter cell (including sperm cells) receives only one copy of each chromosome. While sister chromatid segregation is important for the accurate distribution of genetic material, it does not result in different combinations of alleles in the sperm.
Based on the above explanations, the correct answer is:
c) Recombination: Recombination or genetic recombination is the process that would result in different combinations of alleles for the two genes (R and L) in the man's sperm.