How Did Gregor Mendel's Experiments Revolutionize Genetics?

Gregor Mendel's Groundbreaking Experiments

Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk, conducted groundbreaking experiments with pea plants in the mid-19th century that laid the foundation for modern genetics. By meticulously studying traits such as color and shape, Mendel was able to uncover fundamental principles that govern inheritance.

The Discovery of Dominant and Recessive Genes

Mendel's experiments revealed the existence of dominant and recessive genes in the transmission of traits. He proposed that organisms inherit two copies of each gene, one from each parent, and that these genes may be dominant or recessive. Dominant genes mask the expression of recessive genes, leading to the observed traits in offspring.

Principle of Random Segregation

One of Mendel's key findings was the principle of random segregation, which explains how traits are passed down from parents to offspring. Through his experiments with pea plants, Mendel demonstrated that the inheritance of traits is not determined by blending, but rather through the segregation and independent assortment of genes.

Legacy of Mendel's Experiments

Gregor Mendel's experiments were revolutionary in that they provided a clear framework for understanding how traits are inherited. His work paved the way for further research in genetics, ultimately leading to the development of modern genetic theories and technologies.