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

Options

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

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Mendel's Work**: Mendel studied pea plants and focused on seven traits that were distributed across 14 chromosomes. Each trait was associated with a specific chromosome, allowing for independent assortment during gamete formation.

**Hint**: Recall Mendel's experiments and the significance of the number of chromosomes in relation to traits.

2. **Chromosome Count**: In Mendel's original experiments, the diploid number of chromosomes was 14, which means there were 7 pairs of homologous chromosomes. Each trait was linked to one chromosome.

**Hint**: Remember the difference between diploid and haploid chromosome numbers.

3. **Hypothetical Scenario**: If Mendel had studied a plant with only 12 chromosomes instead of 14, the distribution of traits would change. With 12 chromosomes, there would be 6 pairs of chromosomes.

**Hint**: Think about how reducing the number of chromosomes affects the pairing of traits.

4. **Implications of Fewer Chromosomes**: With 12 chromosomes, there is a higher likelihood that some chromosomes would carry more than one trait. This means that the traits could be linked, rather than assorting independently.

**Hint**: Consider how traits being on the same chromosome affects their inheritance patterns.

5. **Law of Independent Assortment**: The law of independent assortment states that genes for different traits are inherited independently of each other, but this only holds true if the genes are located on different chromosomes. If multiple traits are located on the same chromosome, they will be inherited together.

**Hint**: Recall the definition and significance of the law of independent assortment in genetics.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, if Mendel had studied 7 traits in a plant with 12 chromosomes, he would not have discovered the law of independent assortment, as the traits could be linked on the same chromosome.

**Hint**: Summarize the key points about chromosome number and its effect on genetic inheritance.

**Final Answer**: He would not have discovered the law of independent assortment.

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