Test goodness of fit between observed and expected frequencies. Calculate χ² statistic, p-values, and determine statistical significance for genetics experiments.
The chi-square (χ²) test is a statistical test used to determine if observed frequencies differ significantly from expected frequencies. In genetics, it's commonly used to test if experimental results match predicted Mendelian ratios.
O = Observed frequency, E = Expected frequency
Chi-Square Value: Higher values indicate greater difference between observed and expected.
P-Value: Probability of getting these results by chance. If p < α, reject null hypothesis.
Conclusion:
Degrees of freedom (df) = number of categories - 1
Example:
Testing a monohybrid cross:
Observed: 315 dominant, 108 recessive
Expected: 3:1 ratio (317.25, 105.75)
χ² = 0.072, df = 1, p > 0.05
Result: Accept (fits 3:1 ratio)