The crossing of individuals of the same species with different genetic characters is

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the term describing the mating of individuals of the same species that have different genetic characters (different genotypes or traits).

Step 2: Explain the concepts

• Cross breeding (outbreeding): Mating between genetically different individuals of the same species (or sometimes between varieties or breeds). It brings together different genes and often produces hybrid vigour (heterosis).
• Polygenic inheritance: One trait controlled by many genes, such as height or skin colour. It is not a type of mating.
• Non-disjunction: Failure of chromosomes to separate during meiosis. It causes conditions like Down syndrome and is not a type of cross.
• Inbreeding: Mating between closely related individuals who are genetically similar. This is the opposite of what the question describes.

Step 3: Solve by elimination

• B is a pattern of inheritance, not a crossing, so it is out.
• C is a chromosomal error, not a crossing, so it is out.
• D involves genetically similar, related individuals, but the question says "different genetic characters", so it is out.
• A matches: crossing of genetically different individuals of the same species.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. cross breeding.

Tip: Link the prefix to the meaning. Cross-breeding means crossing different genetic types, while in-breeding keeps it in the family (similar genes). In JAMB, whenever you see "different genetic characters", think cross breeding or hybridization.