KC: Genetics: Part 1

Front

What is a recessive trait?

Back

A recessive trait is a genetic characteristic that is expressed only when two copies of the recessive allele are present. For example, in dogs, deafness can be a recessive trait.

Front

What is a heterozygous genotype?

Back

A heterozygous genotype consists of two different alleles for a particular gene, such as one dominant and one recessive allele (e.g., Aa).

Front

If green is dominant over purple, what does this imply about the genotypes?

Back

It implies that any individual with at least one green allele (G) will display the green phenotype, while only individuals with two purple alleles (gg) will display the purple phenotype.

Front

What is a Punnett Square?

Back

A Punnett Square is a diagram used to predict the genetic outcomes of a cross between two individuals, showing the possible combinations of alleles.

Front

What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?

Back

Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an organism (e.g., BB, Bb, bb), while phenotype refers to the observable traits or characteristics (e.g., blue eyes, brown eyes).

Front

What does it mean for a trait to be dominant?

Back

A dominant trait is one that is expressed in the phenotype even when only one copy of the dominant allele is present.

Front

What is an allele?

Back

An allele is a variant form of a gene that can produce different traits. For example, the gene for flower color may have a purple allele and a white allele.

Front

What is the phenotype of an organism with the genotype Bb?

Back

The phenotype of an organism with the genotype Bb will depend on whether B (dominant) or b (recessive) is expressed, but typically it will show the dominant trait.

Front

How can you determine the probability of offspring traits using a Punnett Square?

Back

By filling out a Punnett Square with the parents' genotypes, you can calculate the probability of each possible genotype and phenotype for the offspring.

Front

What is the significance of the 50% probability in genetic crosses?

Back

A 50% probability indicates that there is an equal chance of obtaining either of the two possible outcomes, such as a dominant or recessive trait.