Why is the law of segregation called purity of gametes?
It is called purity of gametes because during gamete formation, the two alleles of a gene separate, so each gamete carries only one allele.
Key Idea
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Law of Segregation | Alleles separate during gamete formation |
| Gamete | Reproductive cell carrying one allele |
| Purity | Only one allele present in each gamete |
Genetic Explanation
| Parent Genotype | Gametes Formed |
|---|---|
| Tt | T and t |
Why “Purity”
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| No Mixing | Alleles do not blend |
| Single Allele | Each gamete carries only one form |
| Clear Transmission | Trait passes unchanged |
Stepwise Understanding
Individual has two alleles (T and t)
During meiosis, alleles separate
Each gamete receives either T or t
No gamete has both alleles
Hence gametes are “pure”
Important Concept
Alleles remain distinct and do not lose their identity during inheritance.
Real Insight
This is why traits can reappear after generations, because alleles are preserved separately, not mixed permanently.
So it is called purity of gametes because each gamete carries only one allele without any blending.