6.3 questions even though mendel had no understanding of dna as genetic material, he was able to correctly predict how traits were passed through generations. his work uncovered an unknown world of science that rearranged how scientists view life and genetics. \ it was important that mendel began with purebred plants, as it ensured that when he crossed the two differing plants, no other external factors contributed to their outcome. because the original parents of the flowers were both purebred, it is logical that their offspring will be purple due to the flower's apparent purple genes. no, i do not believe that he would have discovered the law of segregation if he had examined solely one trait. one trait is not enough to find offspring.