How many possible combinations are found in a Punnett square for a mono hybrid cross?

In a monohybrid cross, individuals differ by a single trait, typically represented by two alleles (one from each parent). A Punnett square used for this type of cross consists of four cells, which correspond to the possible genetic combinations of the offspring. Each parent contributes one allele, resulting in two combinations from each parent, and when you set up a 2x2 grid, you get four possible combinations overall.

The combinations represent the genotypes of the offspring based on the alleles provided by the parents. For example, if you are crossing a homozygous dominant parent (AA) with a homozygous recessive parent (aa), the possible combinations in the Punnett square would be two Aa and two aa, leading to a phenotype ratio that reflects the dominance of the alleles. Thus, in a monohybrid cross, the correct answer of four possible combinations in the Punnett square reflects the fundamental principles of inheritance as described by Gregor Mendel.