What observation did Sutton make regarding genes and chromosomes?

• A. They are completely independent
• B. They behave the same
• C. They do not influence traits
• D. They are not linked

Answer: (B)

Sutton made the observation that genes and chromosomes behave the same during the process of inheritance, which is fundamental to understanding genetics. He recognized that as chromosomes separate during meiosis, the genes located on those chromosomes also segregate in a manner consistent with Mendel's laws of inheritance. This reinforced the idea that genes are located on chromosomes and that the behavior of chromosomes during cell division directly impacts the inheritance of traits. This connection ultimately contributed to the Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance, which posits that genes are carried on chromosomes and that the inheritance of traits is a result of the segregation and assortment of these chromosomes.

In this context, the other options do not accurately capture Sutton's findings. The concept of independence and lack of linkage does not apply since genes located on the same chromosome may show linkage, while the statement that genes do not influence traits contradicts the foundational principles of genetics.