NEETZoologyPrinciples of Inheritance and Variation
What is the test cross used for in Mendel's experiment with pea plants?
Options
- ATo measure the height of the plants
- BTo determine the genotype of the tall plant
- CTo produce more tall plants
- DTo change the phenotype of the plants
Correct answer
B. To determine the genotype of the tall plant
Step-by-step solution
From the preceeding paragraphs it is clear that though the genotypic ratios can be calculated using mathematical probability, by simply looking at the phenotype of a dominant trait, it is not possible to know the genotypic composition. That is, for example, whether a tall plant from F1 or F2 has TT or Tt composition, cannot be predicted. Therefore, to determine the genotype of a tall plant at F2 , Mendel crossed the tall plant from F2 with a dwarf plant. This he called a test cross. In a typical test cross an organ