When analyzing a pedigree, why do geneticists often assume “complete penetrance” and “rare allele frequency” for a Mendelian trait?
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Correct answer: To simplify inference of the mode of inheritance
Assuming complete penetrance and a rare allele simplifies pedigree analysis by removing confounders such as variable expression, incomplete penetrance, and common carriers. It is a simplifying assumption, not a claim about all real traits.
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