Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Recombination frequency is the proportion of recombinant offspring produced in a genetic cross. It measures the likelihood of crossing over between two genes during meiosis.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Recombination frequency is expressed as a percentage.
It is used to map the relative positions of genes on chromosomes.
A recombination frequency of 50% indicates that the genes are likely unlinked and assort independently.
Lower recombination frequencies suggest closer proximity of genes on a chromosome.
Recombination frequencies can be used to construct genetic linkage maps.
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Related terms
Genetic Linkage: The tendency of alleles that are close together on a chromosome to be inherited together during meiosis.
Crossing Over: The process where homologous chromosomes exchange portions of their chromatids during meiosis, leading to genetic variation.
Linkage Map: A genetic map showing the relative locations of genes on a chromosome based on recombination frequencies.