[Campbell Biology P.353] In a chi-square χ² test for genetic linkage, what is the null hypot... | Practice Question

In a chi-square χ² test for genetic linkage, what is the null hypothesis that is being tested?

  • A: The two genes are linked.
  • B: The two genes are unlinked and assort independently.
  • C: The observed results are different from the expected results.
  • D: The sample size is large enough for the test to be valid.

Explanation

The text states that the chi-square test compares an observed data set with an expected data set predicted by a hypothesis. In this context, the hypothesis being tested the null hypothesis is that 'the genes are unlinked.' The test then determines if the observed data deviates significantly enough to reject this hypothesis.