Final answer:
Mendel studied hereditary factors, now known as genes, that control traits in offspring. These factors, called alleles, separate during gamete production and are passed on from parents to offspring.
Explanation:
Alleles are the alternate versions of a gene that govern specific traits in offspring. Mendel's experiments with pea plants led to the discovery of hereditary factors that we now know as genes. These factors, also called alleles, segregate during gamete formation and are passed from parents to offspring, influencing observable traits.
Learn more about Mendel's experiments on hereditary factors and alleles here:
https://brainly.com/question/16731931
