The genotypic ratio of 1 : 2 : 1 in the offspring of a hybrid cross illustrates the law of

The genotypic ratio of 1:2:1 in the offspring of a hybrid cross illustrates the law of segregation. This law states that two alleles for a trait separate during the formation of gametes, so that each gamete receives only one allele. In other words, each parent contributes one of their two alleles to their offspring, and the alleles segregate during the formation of the gametes. The resulting genotypic ratio in the offspring is 1:2:1 for the three possible genotypes, which correspond to the homozygous dominant, heterozygous, and homozygous recessive individuals. This ratio is a predictable outcome of the random segregation of alleles during gamete formation.