1. What is a 4x4 Cube Punnett Square?

A 4x4 cube Punnett square is used to predict the probability of offspring genotypes when considering two genes, each with two alleles. It's an extension of the basic Punnett square that allows for more complex genetic analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Probability of target genotype (dimensionless)
• \( F \) — Number of favorable outcomes (dimensionless)
• 256 — Total possible outcomes in a 4x4 cube Punnett square

Explanation: The calculator first generates all possible gametes from each parent's genotype, then calculates how many combinations produce the target genotype.

3. Importance of Punnett Squares

Details: Punnett squares are fundamental tools in genetics for predicting the probability of offspring inheriting specific genotypes. The 4x4 cube version allows analysis of dihybrid crosses (two genes).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter genotypes for both parents (4 characters each, e.g., AaBb) and the target genotype (4 characters). The calculator will show the probability of offspring having the target genotype.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why 256 possible outcomes?
A: Each parent can produce 16 possible gametes (4 combinations for each gene), resulting in 16×16=256 possible offspring combinations.

Q2: What's the difference between genotype and phenotype?
A: Genotype is the genetic makeup (e.g., AABB), while phenotype is the physical expression (e.g., black fur).

Q3: How do I represent dominant and recessive alleles?
A: Typically, uppercase letters represent dominant alleles (A) and lowercase represent recessive (a).

Q4: Can this calculator handle incomplete dominance?
A: No, this calculator assumes complete dominance/recessiveness for each allele.

Q5: What about more than two genes?
A: For more genes, the Punnett square becomes exponentially larger and other methods are typically used.