Recombination
Definition
Recombination refers to the process where genetic material is mixed during sexual reproduction, creating new combinations of genes.
Analogy
Imagine you and your friend both have decks of playing cards. You decide to swap some cards with each other. Now, both your decks are unique and different from what they were before - this is similar to recombination!
Related terms
Crossing Over: During meiosis (a type of cell division), homologous chromosomes exchange parts with each other. This leads to new combinations of genes on each chromosome.
Independent Assortment: Another way that recombination happens during meiosis. The chromosomes inherited from mom and dad randomly assort into gametes, leading to many possible combinations.
Genetic Linkage: Genes located close together on a chromosome tend to be inherited together because they are less likely to be separated by recombination.
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