What occurs in the process of genetic mapping?

The process of genetic mapping focuses on locating genes or DNA sequences that are associated with specific traits. This involves determining the physical positions of genes on chromosomes and understanding how these gene locations correlate with observable traits in an organism. By creating a map of these gene locations, researchers can identify which genes contribute to particular characteristics, such as disease susceptibility, physical traits, or other phenotypic expressions.

While identifying the sequence of genes on a chromosome is related to genetic mapping, it does not encompass the broader process where the primary focus is on associating these genes with specific traits. Determining the function of unknown genes and comparing genetic material across different species may be part of broader genetic research but do not directly relate to the core activity of genetic mapping, which centers on localization and association of genes. This makes locating genes or DNA sequences related to traits the most relevant and accurate description of genetic mapping.