Beginner's Guide to Punnett Squares

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to Punnett squares, genetics, and inheritance patterns as discussed in the lecture.

Punnett Square

A tool used to analyze genetic crosses by showing all possible combinations of gametes from two parents.

Meiosis

The process that reduces the number of chromosomes in gametes, occurring in the formation of sperm and egg cells.

Monohybrid Cross

A genetic cross that examines the inheritance of a single trait.

Homozygous

Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.

Heterozygous

Having two different alleles for a particular gene.

Genotypic Ratio

The ratio of different genotypes produced in a genetic cross.

Phenotypic Ratio

The ratio of different phenotypes produced in a genetic cross.

Incomplete Dominance

A situation in which one allele is not completely dominant over another, leading to a third phenotype that is a blend of the two.

Codominance

A genetic scenario where both alleles in a heterozygote are fully expressed, resulting in offspring with a phenotype that is neither dominant nor recessive.

Dihybrid Cross

A genetic cross that examines the inheritance of two different traits.

X-linked Traits

Traits that are determined by genes located on the X chromosome.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that carry alleles.

Alleles

Different versions of a gene that determine distinct traits.

Dominant Allele

An allele that expresses its trait even when paired with a recessive allele.

Recessive Allele

An allele that only expresses its trait when paired with another recessive allele.

Phenotypes

The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism as a result of the genotype.