What is the Product Law in genetics?

The Product Law in genetics refers to a calculation method for independent event outcomes. Specifically, it states that the probability of two or more independent events occurring together can be found by multiplying their individual probabilities. In the context of genetics, this is often applied when determining the likelihood of offspring inheriting specific combinations of traits from their parents.

For example, if one parent contributes a dominant allele for a trait with a probability of 1/2, and the other parent contributes a recessive allele with a probability of 1/2, the probability of the offspring receiving one dominant and one recessive allele is calculated as 1/2 multiplied by 1/2, resulting in a probability of 1/4. This principle holds true for independent traits, making it a fundamental concept in Mendelian genetics.

This understanding is crucial for predicting the outcomes of genetic crosses, particularly when dealing with traits that segregate independently according to Mendel's laws.