Question

which of the following statements correctly describes gene linkage?
linked genes are found on different chromosomes.
the closer two genes are on a chromosome, the lower the probability that a crossover will occur between them.
the observed frequency of recombination of two genes that are far apart from each other has a maximum value of 100%.
linked genes always assort independently.

Explanation:

• Linked genes are found on different chromosomes: Incorrect. Linked genes are on the same chromosome.
• The closer two genes are on a chromosome, the lower the probability that a crossover will occur between them: Correct. Gene - linkage concept: closer genes have fewer crossovers (recombination events) between them.
• The observed frequency of recombination of two genes that are far apart from each other has a maximum value of 100%: Incorrect. Maximum recombination frequency is 50%.
• Linked genes always assort independently: Incorrect. Linked genes do not assort independently (unless they are very far apart and show 50% recombination, which is equivalent to independent assortment in terms of genetic results).

Answer:

The closer two genes are on a chromosome, the lower the probability that a crossover will occur between them.