Question

Differentiate between first filial generation (F₁) and second filial generation (F₂)

Answer 1

Sr. No.	First Filial Generation (F1)	Second Filial Generation (F2)
1.	The F1 generation is the progeny obtained as a result of crossing two parent plants with contrasting characters.	The F2 generation is the progeny obtained from the self-fertilization of the F1 plants.
2.	F1 plants generally show the dominant trait in the offspring due to dominance of one allele over the other.	F2 plants show segregation of traits, displaying both dominant and recessive traits according to Mendelian ratios.
3.	F1 is the first generation after the parental (P1) generation.	F2 is the generation after F1, produced by self-fertilization or interbreeding among F1 individuals.
4.	The characters in F1 plants do not blend but remain distinct, with one dominant trait masking the recessive trait.	The F2 generation shows a phenotypic ratio (e.g., 3:1 in monohybrid cross) where recessive traits reappear.
5.	F1 plants are heterozygous hybrids for the trait under study.	F2 plants have varied genotypes including homozygous dominant, heterozygous, and homozygous recessive.
6.	There is no segregation of alleles visible in the F1 generation.	Segregation of alleles occurs in F2 leading to new combinations of traits.
7.	F1 represents the hybrid generation formed from two true-breeding parents.	F2 represents the generation where the genes segregate and assort independently producing variation.