Answer:
They can be inherited independently through a process known as genetic recombination or crossing over.
Explanation:
When genes are on the same chromosome, they are usually inherited together. However, during a process called genetic recombination, pieces of chromosomes can swap places. If genes are far apart on a chromosome, there's a higher chance they might be inherited independently. If genes are very close, they're likely to stick together during inheritance. So, the likelihood of genes being inherited independently or together depends on how far apart they are on the chromosome.