Mendel and the Scientific Method

• Mendel chose characters that are distinctly different (observation)
• Hypothesizes that the difference is not due to environment but due to Anlagen (genes)
• Tests the hypothesis by making reciprocal hybridizations
• Mendel observes that one character is always found in the offspring and that the other is not present
• Mendel hypothesizes that the observed factor is dominant

Mendel further tests

• Mendel then allows the plant to self-pollinate
• Mendel then observes that the alternate form is present in one fourth of the the offspring
• Mendel hypothesizes that the factors are segregating

We see this pattern of observation, hypothesis building, and testing that is characteristic of the scientific method.

Text iGenetics by Peter J. Russell

This web site is provided for instruction in Botany and Zoology 342

by Kenneth G. Wilson,
Professor of Botany
Miami University
wilsonkg@muohio.edu