To analyze the genetic cross between two parents who are carriers for sickle cell anemia (represented as "Ss," where "S" is the normal allele and "s" is the allele for sickle cell anemia), we can use a Punnett square.
Each parent can contribute either the "S" or "s" allele. The possible combinations of their offspring's genotypes are as follows:
S s
__________
S | SS | Ss |
|------|------|
s | Ss | ss |
From the Punnett square, we have four potential genotypes for the offspring:
- SS (normal): 1 out of 4, or 25%
- Ss (carrier): 2 out of 4, or 50%
- ss (affected): 1 out of 4, or 25%
Now, let's summarize the probabilities:
- The probability that these parents will have an offspring affected with sickle cell anemia (ss) is 25%.
- The probability that their offspring would also be a carrier like them (Ss) is 50%.
So, the answers to your blanks are:
- The probability that these parents will have an offspring affected with sickle cell anemia is 25 percent.
- The probability that their offspring would also be a carrier like them is 50 percent.