According to the Chromosome Theory of Inheritance, what undergoes segregation during meiosis?

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Study for the UCF BSC1005 Biological Principles Exam. Explore exam formats, detailed questions and answers with explanations to enhance understanding. Get ready for your exam with confidence!

The Chromosome Theory of Inheritance posits that genes are located on chromosomes and that these chromosomes segregate during the process of meiosis, which is responsible for the formation of gametes. During meiosis, chromosomes pair up and then separate so that each gamete receives only one chromosome from each pair. This establishes how traits are passed down through generations.

In this context, while genes are important as the units of heredity found on the chromosomes, it is actually the chromosomes themselves that physically segregate during meiosis. This segregation ensures the genetic material is distributed appropriately into daughter cells, maintaining genetic diversity.

Therefore, focusing on the segregation process, it is the chromosomes that undergo this physical separation, not genes alone or structures associated with genes, such as alleles. This reinforces the understanding of the practical implications of the Chromosome Theory of Inheritance regarding the behavior of chromosomes during gamete formation.