Which term is used to predict results in genetics?

• A. Punnett Square
• B. Pedigree
• C. Karyotype
• D. Genome

Answer: (A)

Predicting the outcome of a genetic cross hinges on combining the alleles offspring can inherit from each parent. The Punnett square is the standard tool for this. By listing all possible gametes from each parent on the top and side, you fill in each cell with the resulting genotype, giving you the probabilities for each genotype and, with dominance relationships, the corresponding phenotypes. It shows the chances of different offspring without guaranteeing a specific result. For example, crossing two heterozygotes for a trait with simple dominance yields a 1:2:1 genotype ratio and a 3:1 phenotype ratio. Pedigrees track inheritance patterns across generations but don’t provide the exact cross outcome; karyotypes show chromosome number and structure; genomes refer to the organism’s complete genetic content.