A diploid flowering plant has chromosome number 2n = 24. During meiosis each chromosome pair can assort independently, and for each pair crossing over can generate three distinct recombinant chromatids in addition to the two parental chromatids (total 5 distinct chromatids per chromosome). Assuming independence and recombination, how many genetically distinct haploid gametes can be formed?

Step-by-step solution

1. Step 1: Determine the haploid number n = 2n / 2 = 12.
2. Step 2: For each chromosome, there are 5 different chromatids that can be transmitted to a gamete (2 parental + 3 recombinant).
3. Step 3: Because chromosome pairs assort independently, the choice of chromatid for one chromosome does not affect the others.
4. Step 4: Total number of possible gametes = (number of choices per chromosome)^{number of chromosomes} = $5^{12}$.
5. Step 5: Calculate $5^{12}$: $5^2$=25, $5^4$=625, $5^6$=15625, $5^8$=390625, $5^{10}$=9765625, $5^{12}$=244140625.
6. Hence, 244,140,625 distinct haploid gametes can be formed.

Concept tested: Genetic variation by independent assortment & crossing over

Published 4 October 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked