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Combination of Genotypes Formula:
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The combination of genotypes refers to the total number of possible genetic combinations that can be formed from a given number of alleles. This calculation is fundamental in genetics for understanding inheritance patterns and predicting genetic diversity.
The calculator uses the combination of genotypes formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the total number of possible genotype combinations that can be formed from N different alleles, including both homozygous and heterozygous combinations.
Details: Understanding genotype combinations is crucial for predicting inheritance patterns, calculating genetic diversity, and studying population genetics. It helps in determining the possible offspring genotypes from parental crosses.
Tips: Enter the number of alleles present at a specific gene locus. The number must be a positive integer. The calculator will compute the total number of possible genotype combinations.
Q1: What is the difference between alleles and genotypes?
A: Alleles are different forms of a gene, while genotypes are the specific combinations of alleles that an organism possesses.
Q2: Why does the formula use (N² + N)/2?
A: This formula accounts for both homozygous (N combinations) and heterozygous (N choose 2 combinations) genotypes, providing the total number of possible genotype combinations.
Q3: What is the minimum number of alleles required?
A: At least one allele is required to form genotypes. With one allele, only one homozygous genotype is possible.
Q4: How does this relate to Mendelian genetics?
A: This calculation extends Mendelian principles to multiple alleles, showing how genetic diversity increases with more alleles at a locus.
Q5: Can this formula be used for polyploid organisms?
A: No, this formula is specifically for diploid organisms. Polyploid organisms require different calculations based on their ploidy level.