1. What is a 4x4 Punnett Square?

A 4x4 Punnett square is a diagram used to predict the genotype and phenotype combinations from a cross between two individuals heterozygous for two traits (dihybrid cross). It shows all possible combinations of parental alleles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Punnett square probability formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Probability (dimensionless)
• \( F \) — Number of favorable outcomes (0-16)
• 16 — Total possible combinations in 4x4 square

Explanation: The equation calculates the probability of a particular genotype or phenotype by dividing favorable outcomes by total possible outcomes.

3. Importance of Punnett Squares

Details: Punnett squares are fundamental tools in genetics for predicting inheritance patterns, understanding dominant/recessive relationships, and calculating probabilities of traits in offspring.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of favorable genotype/phenotype combinations (0-16) from your Punnett square analysis. The calculator will compute the probability as a fraction and percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When is a 4x4 Punnett square used?
A: For dihybrid crosses where both parents are heterozygous for two traits (AaBb × AaBb).

Q2: What's the difference between genotype and phenotype probability?
A: Genotype counts specific allele combinations (e.g., AABB), while phenotype counts observable traits (e.g., dominant for both).

Q3: How many unique genotypes are possible in a 4x4 Punnett square?
A: There are 9 unique genotypes in a dihybrid cross (for two traits with two alleles each).

Q4: What's the 9:3:3:1 ratio?
A: The classic phenotypic ratio for two unlinked traits in a dihybrid cross (9 both dominant, 3 each single dominant, 1 recessive for both).

Q5: Can this calculator handle more complex crosses?
A: No, this is specifically for basic 4x4 (dihybrid) crosses. More complex inheritance patterns require different approaches.