1. What is a Dihybrid Cross?

A dihybrid cross examines the inheritance of two different traits simultaneously. It demonstrates Mendel's principle of independent assortment, showing how genes for different traits separate independently during gamete formation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator generates all possible gamete combinations from each parent's genotype, then combines them in a Punnett square to show potential offspring genotypes and phenotypes.

Where \( n \) is the number of heterozygous gene pairs (2 for dihybrid cross).

3. Understanding the Results

Genotypes: The specific genetic makeup of the offspring (e.g., AABB, AaBb).
Phenotypes: The observable traits resulting from the genotypes (e.g., dominant for both traits).
Ratios: The expected proportions of different genotypes and phenotypes in the offspring.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter genotypes using letters (e.g., AaBb). The first two letters represent one trait, the last two represent the second trait. Capital letters represent dominant alleles.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between monohybrid and dihybrid crosses?
A: Monohybrid crosses examine one trait, while dihybrid crosses examine two traits simultaneously.

Q2: What is Mendel's law of independent assortment?
A: Genes for different traits are inherited independently of one another during gamete formation.

Q3: Why is the phenotypic ratio 9:3:3:1?
A: This ratio occurs when both parents are heterozygous for both traits, showing all possible combinations.

Q4: What if my results don't match expected ratios?
A: Real-world results may vary due to sample size, genetic linkage, or other factors.

Q5: Can this calculator handle incomplete dominance?
A: No, this calculator assumes complete dominance for both traits.