Inheritance Diagrams Flashcards

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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What is an inheritance diagram (family tree) used for in genetics?

To show how a characteristic or genetic disorder is passed through a family.

In an inheritance diagram, what does a square usually represent?

It usually shows a male.

In an inheritance diagram, what does a circle usually represent?

It usually shows a female.

In an inheritance diagram, what does a shaded shape usually show?

It shows a person who has the trait or disorder.

How is a pair of parents usually shown in an inheritance diagram?

By a horizontal line joining the two parent symbols.

How are the children of a couple shown in an inheritance diagram?

By vertical lines down from the parents to each child below.

What is meant by a generation in an inheritance diagram?

All the people on the same row, born in the same time period.

What do letters like "Bb" or "bb" written next to a person in an inheritance diagram show?

They show the alleles, or genetic make-up, that person has for that trait.

In an inheritance diagram for a recessive disorder, what must be true about unaffected parents who have an affected child?

Both parents must carry one recessive allele, so they are carriers.

How can an inheritance diagram help doctors or genetic counsellors?

They can see how a condition runs in a family and spot carriers.