Which statement is true regarding the law of segregation?

• A. It applies to phenotypic ratios only
• B. It involves the segregation of genotypes
• C. It leads to the formation of gametes containing one allele per gene
• D. It guarantees all offspring will be heterozygous

Answer: (C)

The law of segregation, first described by Gregor Mendel, states that during the formation of gametes, the two alleles for a trait present in an organism separate from each other so that each gamete carries only one allele for each gene. This concept is fundamental to understanding how genetic inheritance works.

The correct statement highlights that the law of segregation leads to the formation of gametes containing one allele per gene. This means that when an organism produces gametes, such as sperm or eggs, it will only pass on one of the two copies of each gene it possesses. As a result, offspring inherit one allele from each parent, which is crucial for the predictable ratios of genotypes and phenotypes that Mendelian genetics describes.

The other statements do not capture the essence of the law accurately. Though the law influences genotypes, it is specifically about the separation of alleles rather than outright segregation of entire genotypes. The law of segregation does not guarantee offspring will be heterozygous; rather, it allows for the possibility of heterozygous or homozygous offspring depending on the alleles contributed from each parent. Additionally, the concept of phenotypic ratios is a consequence of many factors, including dominance and the interaction of genes,