Which model is commonly used to predict the possible outcomes of a genetic cross?

The Punnett square is a widely used tool in genetics to predict the possible outcomes of a genetic cross. This model provides a visual representation of the allele combinations that can occur in offspring from two parents with known genotypes. By placing one parent's alleles along the top and the other's along the side of a grid, it allows for the easy computation of the probability of each genotype appearing in the offspring. For example, if one parent is homozygous for a dominant trait and the other is homozygous for a recessive trait, the Punnett square clearly shows that all offspring will be heterozygous for that trait, thus demonstrating the simple Mendelian inheritance patterns.

This predictive power is crucial for both studying hereditary patterns and making informed decisions in breeding strategies as well as understanding genetic disorders.