What is a monohybrid cross?

A monohybrid cross is a genetic cross between two individuals that involves the study of a single trait or characteristic. This type of cross allows researchers to observe the inheritance pattern of a specific trait as it is passed from one generation to the next.

In a monohybrid cross, the parents are typically homozygous for the trait being studied (meaning they have two of the same alleles for that trait). The offspring of the cross, known as the F1 generation, will all be heterozygous for the trait (meaning they have two different alleles for that trait).

The Punnett square is often used to predict the possible genotypes and phenotypes of the offspring in a monohybrid cross. By analyzing the results of the cross, researchers can determine the dominant and recessive alleles for the trait and understand how they are inherited.

Monohybrid crosses are a fundamental tool in genetics research and are used to study the inheritance of specific traits in a variety of organisms, from plants to animals. They help scientists unravel the complexities of genetic inheritance and can provide valuable insights into the patterns of inheritance for different traits.