The basic principle of genetics that explains the inheritance of traits is known as the Law of Segregation. This principle, first established by Gregor Mendel, states that each organism carries two alleles for any given trait, one inherited from each parent. During gamete formation, these alleles segregate so that each gamete carries only one allele. When fertilization occurs, the offspring receive one allele from each parent, determining their traits. This foundational concept helps explain the patterns of inheritance and variation observed in breeding experiments and natural populations.