Question

Differentiate between :

(a) Genotype and phenotype.
(b) Character and trait.
(c) Monohybrid and dihybrid cross (phenotypic ratio).

Answer 1

(a) [2 Marks]

Genotype	Phenotype
It designates the genetic constitution of an individual which determines the characters. The individuals of the same genotype interbreed and have the same phenotype if they are present in the same environment. The set of genes present in the cells of an organism is called its genotype	It designates the external appearance of an individual. The individual of the same phenotype may appear alike but may not inter breed if genetically different. The observable characteristic which is genetically controlled is called phenotype.

(b) [1 Mark]

Character	Trait
Any heritable feature is called a character	The alternative form of a character is called trait

(c) [2 marks]

Monohybrid cross	Dihybrid cross
It is a cross between two pure-breeding parent organisms with different varieties taking into consideration the alternative trait of only one character.	It is a cross between two pure-breeding traits of only one or two parent organisms with different varieties taking into consideration the alternative trait of two characters.