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So I have a problem about inheritance. In single meiosis, random assortment can create 4 different genetically gametes or not ?

Question

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Solution

Yes, in a single meiosis event, random assortment can indeed create four different genetically unique gametes. Here's a detailed explanation of how this occurs:

  1. Break Down the Problem:

    • Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the production of gametes (sperm and eggs).
    • Random assortment refers to the way chromosomes are distributed into gametes independently of one another.
  2. Relevant Concepts:

    • Independent Assortment: During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are distributed randomly into daughter cells. This means that each gamete receives a random mix of maternal and paternal chromosomes.
    • Crossing Over: Although not directly related to random assortment, crossing over during prophase I can further increase genetic variation by exchanging genetic material between homologous chromosomes.
  3. Analysis and Detail:

    • Consider a simple organism with two pairs of homologous chromosomes (2n = 4). During meiosis I, each pair of homologous chromosomes can align in two different ways on the metaphase plate.
    • This results in 2n2^n possible combinations of chromosomes in the gametes, where nn is the number of chromosome pairs. For our example with two pairs, 22=42^2 = 4 different combinations are possible.
  4. Verify and Summarize:

    • The four possible combinations of chromosomes ensure that each gamete is genetically unique. This genetic diversity is crucial for evolution and adaptation.

Final Answer

Yes, random assortment during a single meiosis can create four different genetically unique gametes, assuming there are two pairs of homologous chromosomes. This is due to the independent assortment of chromosomes, which results in 2n2^n combinations, where nn is the number of chromosome pairs.

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