Question

Commonly used statistical test in Mendelian Genetics/ Population Genetics is

• A. F test
• B. t - test
• C. $X^2$ - test
• D. Z - test

Hint:

$X^2$ test $\rightarrow$ Used for categorical data (e.g., number of Tall vs. Dwarf plants).
It helps us accept or reject the Null Hypothesis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
Genetics involves comparing observed experimental data with expected theoretical ratios (like 3:1). The question asks for the statistical tool used to determine if the difference is due to chance or a real biological deviation.
Detailed Explanation:

• Chi-Square ($X^2$) Test:
The Chi-square test is a "Goodness of Fit" test.
It is used to determine how well the observed phenotypic frequencies in a genetic cross fit the predicted Mendelian ratios.

• Formula:
\[ X^2 = \sum \frac{(O - E)^2}{E} \]
Where \( O \) is the observed value and \( E \) is the expected value.

• Application:
It is the standard test to validate hypotheses in Mendelian genetics and to test the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in population genetics.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The Chi-square ($X^2$) test is the most common statistical tool used in genetics.