Why does genetic linkage occur in chromosomes?

Genetic linkage occurs primarily because genes that are located close to each other on the same chromosome tend to be inherited together during the process of meiosis. This phenomenon is known as genetic linkage. When chromosomes are segregated during meiosis, it is more likely that these closely positioned genes will remain together rather than assort independently. The physical proximity of the genes reduces the chance of recombination occurring between them during crossing over, which occurs in prophase I of meiosis. As a result, traits governed by linked genes are often inherited together in offspring, making them less likely to assort independently when compared to genes that are located on different chromosomes or further apart on the same chromosome. This understanding is crucial in genetic mapping and studying inheritance patterns within populations.