If Mandel had studied 7 traits using a plant with 12 chromosomes instead of 14, he would have

Options

A. He would have mapped the chromosome
B. He would have discovered blending or incomplete dominance
C. He would not have discovered the law of independent assortment
D. He would have discovered sex-linkage

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Mendel's Contributions**: Mendel is known for his foundational work in genetics, particularly for formulating the laws of inheritance, including the law of dominance and the law of independent assortment.

2. **Analyzing Chromosome Number**: Mendel studied pea plants, which have 14 chromosomes (7 pairs). Each chromosome pair allows for the independent assortment of alleles during gamete formation.

3. **Impact of Fewer Chromosomes**: If Mendel had studied a plant with only 12 chromosomes, this would mean there are 6 pairs of chromosomes instead of 7. This reduction implies that there would be fewer opportunities for independent assortment.

4. **Linkage of Genes**: With 12 chromosomes, it is likely that more than one gene could be present on the same chromosome. This would lead to gene linkage, where the alleles of different genes are inherited together rather than independently.

5. **Conclusion on Independent Assortment**: Since the law of independent assortment relies on the presence of separate chromosome pairs allowing for independent segregation, a reduction in chromosome pairs would hinder Mendel's ability to observe this law. Therefore, he would not have discovered the law of independent assortment.

6. **Final Answer**: The correct conclusion is that if Mendel had studied 7 traits using a plant with 12 chromosomes instead of 14, he would not have discovered the law of independent assortment.