A diploid plant has chromosome number $2n=20$. During meiosis, each chromosome pair can assort independently and can produce 4 different recombinant chromatids due to crossing over. Assuming independent assortment and recombination, how many distinct haploid gamete combinations are theoretically possible?

Step-by-step solution

1. The diploid number $2n=20$ gives $n=10$ chromosome pairs.
2. For each pair, crossing over can generate 4 different recombinant chromatids.
3. The gamete receives one chromatid from each pair, giving 4 choices per pair.
4. Since all pairs assort independently, the total number of gamete types is $4^{10}$.
5. Computing $4^{10}=1,048,576$.
6. Hence, one million forty-eight thousand five hundred seventy-six distinct haploid gamete combinations are possible.

Concept tested: Independent assortment with recombination

Published 28 September 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked