Gene linkage refers to the tendency of genes located close to one another on a chromosome to be inherited together. This phenomenon is closely related to the concept of genetic linkage, which describes the degree to which two or more genes are likely to be inherited together. Synonymous terms for gene linkage include chromosome linkage, linkage disequilibrium, and genetic association. Other related terms include recombination, which refers to the process by which genetic material is exchanged during meiosis, and crossing-over, which describes the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes. Overall, studying gene linkage and its related terms provides valuable insight into the mechanisms of genetic inheritance and evolution.