The law of segregation in genetics, first formulated by Gregor Mendel, states that each individual has two alleles (gene copies) for a particular trait, and these alleles segregate (separate) randomly during the formation of gametes (sperm or egg cells). As a result, each gamete carries only one allele for each gene. When fertilization occurs, offspring inherit one allele from each parent, restoring the pair of alleles for that trait

. Key points of the law of segregation include:

• Alleles separate during meiosis, specifically during the first division when homologous chromosomes segregate into different gametes

• Each gamete receives only one allele from the pair, ensuring genetic variation

• This segregation explains the 3:1 phenotypic ratio observed in Mendel’s pea plant experiments, where dominant and recessive traits appear in predictable ratios in offspring

• The law is also known as the "law of purity of gametes" because gametes carry only one allele, not a mixture

• It is a fundamental principle that underlies Mendelian inheritance and is universally accepted without exceptions

In summary, the law of segregation describes how alleles for a gene separate so that each gamete contains only one allele, and offspring inherit one allele from each parent, determining their genetic traits