Physical mapping is a technique used in genetics to determine the physical location of genes on a chromosome. This process involves creating a detailed map that shows the arrangement of genes and other important markers, which helps researchers understand the structure and function of the genome. By using various methods, such as DNA sequencing and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), scientists can visualize the positions of genes and their distances from one another. This information is crucial for studying genetic disorders and can aid in the development of targeted therapies and genetic engineering techniques.