1. What is a Punnett Square?

A Punnett square is a diagram that is used to predict the genotype and phenotype combinations of offspring from parental alleles. It's a fun way to predict possible genetic outcomes for a baby shower.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the probability formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Probability (dimensionless)
• \( F \) — Favorable outcomes (dimensionless)
• \( T \) — Total outcomes (dimensionless)

Explanation: The calculator generates all possible genetic combinations from the parents' genotypes and calculates the probability of your desired outcome.

3. Importance of Punnett Squares

Details: Punnett squares help visualize genetic inheritance patterns and are useful for predicting traits like eye color, hair color, and genetic disorders.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select the genotypes for both parents and choose your desired outcome. The calculator will show the probability and possible genetic combinations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between genotype and phenotype?
A: Genotype is the genetic makeup (e.g., AA, Aa, aa), while phenotype is the physical expression (e.g., brown eyes, blonde hair).

Q2: How accurate are these predictions?
A: These are statistical probabilities. Actual results may vary due to complex genetic interactions.

Q3: Can this predict multiple traits?
A: This calculator handles single-gene traits. For multiple traits, more complex analysis is needed.

Q4: What do the letters represent?
A: They represent alleles - different versions of the same gene (A = dominant, a = recessive).

Q5: Is this just for humans?
A: No, Punnett squares work for any sexually reproducing organism following Mendelian inheritance.