Punnett squares & Pedigrees

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What is a Punnett square?

Back

A Punnett square is a diagram used to predict the genetic makeup of offspring from two parents based on their genotypes.

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What does it mean for a baby to be a carrier of a trait?

Back

A carrier is an individual who has one copy of a recessive allele that does not manifest in their phenotype but can be passed on to offspring.

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What do circles represent in a pedigree chart?

Back

Circles represent females in a pedigree chart.

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What do squares represent in a pedigree chart?

Back

Squares represent males in a pedigree chart.

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What is the difference between autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive traits?

Back

Autosomal dominant traits require only one copy of the allele to be expressed, while autosomal recessive traits require two copies.

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What is an X-linked recessive trait?

Back

An X-linked recessive trait is a genetic condition that is expressed in individuals who have two copies of the recessive allele on the X chromosome, often affecting males more than females.

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How can you determine the number of offspring in a pedigree chart?

Back

You can count the number of vertical lines leading from a couple to their offspring in the pedigree chart.

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What is meiosis?

Back

Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes.

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What is mitosis?

Back

Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells, maintaining the same chromosome number as the parent cell.

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Why is genetic diversity important?

Back

Genetic diversity is important for the survival of a species as it increases the chances of adaptation to changing environments.