Biology

The correct answer is D. Independent Assortment.

The statements "During meiosis, the homologous pairs of chromosomes and the matching alleles are lined up independently" and "Offspring are a mix of maternal genes and paternal genes" both describe the process of independent assortment during meiosis.

Independent assortment is a principle of genetics that states that during meiosis, homologous pairs of chromosomes align randomly at the metaphase plate, resulting in the random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into daughter cells. This random alignment and segregation of chromosomes during meiosis I create genetic variation in the resulting gametes.

Independent assortment allows for the mixing and shuffling of alleles from different homologous chromosomes, leading to the creation of new combinations of alleles in the offspring. This process contributes to genetic diversity and increases the potential combinations of traits that can be inherited.

Option A, homozygous ...