What is the Hardy-Weinberg equation?

The Hardy-Weinberg equation is: p2+2pq+q2=1

It is important to remember that p+q also equals 1.

p2 is the frequency of the homozygous dominant genotype, and q2 the recessive. 2pq is the frequency of the heterozygous genotype.

p and q are the allele frequencies of the dominant and recessive allele respectively.

Exam questions will give you one frequency (either an allele or geno/phenotype frequency) and using this you will have to work out the other values that go into the equation in order to provide the answer that the particular question is looking for.

MC
Answered by Marlie C. Biology tutor

4432 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the process of the Krebs cycle.


Explain how changing one base in a DNA sequence may result in a non-functional protein being produced.


Explain the sliding filament theory


What part do the kidneys play in homeostasis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning