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In a population of 2000 individuals, the frequency of the dominant allele A (p) is 0.65. Assuming Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, calculate the expected number of heterozygous individuals (Aa).

medium 3 marks Class 12 · Biology · Principles of Inheritance and Variation
Answer
910 individuals are expected to be heterozygous (Aa).

The correct answer is 910 individuals are expected to be heterozygous (Aa). — Thus 910 individuals are expected to be Aa.

Step-by-step solution

  1. Determine the recessive allele frequency: q = 1 – p = 1 – 0.65 = 0.35.
  2. Calculate heterozygote frequency using 2pq: 2 × 0.65 × 0.35 = 0.455.
  3. Multiply the heterozygote frequency by the total population: 0.455 × 2000 = 910.
  4. Thus 910 individuals are expected to be Aa.
Common mistake: Using p² instead of 2pq for heterozygotes

Concept tested: Hardy–Weinberg heterozygote frequency

Published · How this solution was prepared and checked

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