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mendelian monohybrid
A LevelBiology~3 min read
Overview
This lesson introduces Mendelian Genetics, focusing on monohybrid inheritance, which involves the inheritance of a single characteristic. We will explore key terminology, Mendel's laws, and how to predict offspring genotypes and phenotypes using Punnett squares.
Introduction to Mendelian Genetics and Gregor Mendel
Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk, is considered the 'father of genetics' due to his groundbreaking work with pea plants (Pisum sativum) in the mid-19th century. Before Mendel, the prevailing theory was 'blending inheritance,' where offspring traits were thought to be an average of parental traits. Me...
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Key Concepts
- Gene: A segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein, determining a characteristic.
- Allele: Different forms of a gene, located at the same locus on homologous chromosomes.
- Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism, represented by the combination of alleles (e.g., TT, Tt, tt).
- Phenotype: The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, resulting from its genotype and environmental interactions (e.g., tall, dwarf).
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Exam Tips
- →Clearly define all genetic terminology (gene, allele, genotype, phenotype, homozygous, heterozygous, dominant, recessive) as these are frequently tested.
- →Practice drawing Punnett squares for various monohybrid crosses. Always state the parental genotypes, gametes, and then the genotypic and phenotypic ratios of the offspring.
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