Select the correct option with respect to the law of independent assortment

Options

A. It can be explained by using monohybrid cross
B. The inheritance of one character is dependent on another character
C. This law is not applicable universally
D. It was proposed by Bateson

Answer

To solve the question regarding the law of independent assortment, we will analyze the options provided and determine which statement is correct based on Mendel's principles of inheritance.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Law of Independent Assortment**:
- The law of independent assortment states that the inheritance of one trait does not influence the inheritance of another trait. This means that alleles for different traits segregate independently during gamete formation.

2. **Identifying the Context**:
- Mendel's experiments with garden peas (Pisum sativum) demonstrated this law by observing traits such as seed shape (round vs. wrinkled) and seed color (yellow vs. green).

3. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option A**: "We can explain it with the help of monohybrid cross."
- This is incorrect because a monohybrid cross involves only one trait, while the law of independent assortment pertains to two traits.

- **Option B**: "Inheritance of one character is dependent on another character."
- This contradicts the law of independent assortment, which states that traits are inherited independently.

- **Option C**: "It is not universally applicable."
- This is correct. While the law applies to traits that are located on different chromosomes or far apart on the same chromosome, it does not hold true for genes that are linked (close together on the same chromosome).

- **Option D**: "Bateson proposed it."
- This is incorrect. The law of independent assortment was proposed by Gregor Mendel, not Bateson.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the evaluation, the correct option regarding the law of independent assortment is **Option C**: "It is not universally applicable."