The allele y occurs with a frequency of 0.8 in a population of clams. Give the frequencies of the genotypes YY, Yy and yy.

To do this we use the Hardy-weinburg equation.p2+2pq+q2=1frequency of y = q, frequency of Y=pFirst we work out the frequency of Y(p)p+q=11-0.8=0.2p=0.2Then we plug our p and q values into the equation to find the frequency of our phenotypes.p2=0.042pq=0.32q2=0.64We can check our answers by adding them up to see if they make 10.04+0.32+0.64=1Frequency of genotype YY=0.04, Yy=0.32, yy=0.64

Answered by Biology tutor

6438 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How are electron microscopes (TEM) fundamentally different from light microscopes and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?


Describe the similarities between photosynthesis and respiration.


What's the difference between an antigen and an antibody?


Explain the importance of the cytoskeleton's role in providing mechanical strength to cells, aiding transport within cells and enabling movement of the cell.


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