1. What is Eye Color Inheritance?

Eye color inheritance is a polygenic trait influenced by multiple genes. While simplified models often use Mendelian genetics, actual inheritance is more complex with contributions from both parents and grandparents.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses a probability formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Probability (dimensionless)
• \( F \) — Favorable outcomes (dimensionless)
• \( T \) — Total outcomes (dimensionless)

Explanation: The calculator analyzes the eye colors in the family tree to estimate the probability of different eye colors in offspring.

3. Importance of Genetic Factors

Details: While parents contribute most genetic material, grandparents' genes can influence eye color through recessive genes that may be passed down but not expressed in parents.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select the eye colors for all family members. The calculator will show the probability distribution for potential eye colors in offspring.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculator?
A: This provides estimates based on simplified genetic models. Actual eye color depends on complex interactions of multiple genes.

Q2: Can two blue-eyed parents have a brown-eyed child?
A: While rare, it's possible if both parents carry recessive brown-eye genes from their ancestors.

Q3: Why include grandparents in the calculation?
A: Grandparents' eye colors help identify recessive genes that parents might carry but not express.

Q4: Do environmental factors affect eye color?
A: Eye color is primarily genetic, though some conditions can cause color changes later in life.

Q5: Why do some babies' eye colors change?
A: Many babies are born with blue eyes that darken over time as melanin production increases.