Hardy-Weinberg Calculator
Calculate allele frequencies and analyze population genetics using the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
Understanding Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
The Hardy-Weinberg principle describes how allele and genotype frequencies remain stable in a population under specific conditions. Our calculator helps analyze population genetics and test for genetic equilibrium.
Hardy-Weinberg Calculator
Calculate allele frequencies and test for equilibrium
Understanding Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
Allele Frequencies
Understanding p and q frequencies
- p + q = 1
- Dominant vs recessive
- Population sampling
- Frequency changes
Genotype Distribution
How genotypes are distributed
- p² + 2pq + q² = 1
- Homozygous dominant (p²)
- Heterozygous (2pq)
- Homozygous recessive (q²)
Equilibrium Testing
Testing for HW equilibrium
- Chi-square test
- Expected frequencies
- Observed frequencies
- Statistical significance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is a principle stating that allele and genotype frequencies in a population will remain constant from generation to generation under specific conditions, including random mating and no selection pressure.
How do you calculate allele frequencies?
Allele frequencies (p and q) are calculated from genotype frequencies. For a dominant allele (A), p = frequency of AA + (½ × frequency of Aa). For a recessive allele (a), q = frequency of aa + (½ × frequency of Aa).
What conditions are required for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
The conditions include: random mating, no natural selection, no mutation, no migration (gene flow), and large population size. Violations of these conditions can cause deviations from equilibrium.
How do you test for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is tested using a chi-square test comparing observed genotype frequencies to expected frequencies calculated from allele frequencies. A p-value > 0.05 suggests the population is in equilibrium.
Why is Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium important?
Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium provides a null model for population genetics. Deviations from equilibrium can indicate evolutionary forces at work, such as selection, mutation, or non-random mating.
Important Notes
- p² + 2pq + q² = 1 (genotype frequencies)
- p + q = 1 (allele frequencies)
- Assumes random mating
- No mutation or migration
- Large population size
- No natural selection