Which statement best describes why Punnett squares are useful? (1 point)
A. • Punnett squares are used to predict the most likely allele combinations of the parents in a cross.
B. • Punnett squares are used to predict how dominant alleles are inherited.
C. • Punnett squares are used to predict how recessive alleles are inherited.
D. • Punnett squares are used to predict all possible allele combinations and their frequencies in offspring.
D. • Punnett squares are used to predict all possible allele combinations and their frequencies in offspring.
A. • Punnett squares are used to predict the most likely allele combinations of the parents in a cross.
The best statement that describes why Punnett squares are useful is A. Punnett squares are used to predict the most likely allele combinations of the parents in a cross.
A Punnett square is a tool used in genetics to determine the probability of inheriting specific traits or alleles from two parents. It is named after the geneticist Reginald Punnett, who first developed it. By using this visual representation, we can analyze the possible combinations of alleles that can occur in offspring.
To create a Punnett square, we need to know the alleles of the parents. The different combinations of alleles are placed in a grid, with the alleles from one parent along the top and the alleles from the other parent along the side. Then, by combining the alleles from each row and column, we can determine the possible genotype and phenotype of the offspring.
Therefore, Punnett squares are particularly useful for predicting the most likely allele combinations in the offspring of a genetic cross, making option A the correct statement.