Biology Allele Frequency

A population-genetics frequency (0–1). Distinct from phenotype percent and from Hardy–Weinberg 2pq.

Allele frequency = copies of the allele ÷ total alleles at the locus.

Tip: Keep “Allele Copies” and “Total Alleles” on the same basis (period, units, and population) before calculating Biology Allele Frequency.

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Allele frequency is the share of one allele among all alleles at a locus in the gene pool.

Enter allele copies and total alleles (typically 2 × diploid individuals for one locus).

Copies of the allele
All alleles at the locus

Allele Frequency

Understanding Biology Allele Frequency

How we calculate. Allele frequency = copies of the allele ÷ total alleles at the locus. The form uses the same arithmetic as the worked examples on this page. See our methodology and accuracy policy.

Real-world scenario: A typical Biology Allele Frequency case uses allele copies 120 and total alleles 400. Enter the same figures below to reproduce the worked path.

What is Biology Allele Frequency?

A population-genetics frequency (0–1). Distinct from phenotype percent and from Hardy–Weinberg 2pq.

  • 0 ≤ frequency ≤ 1
  • Diploid locus: total alleles ≈ 2N
  • Same generation

The Formula

Allele Frequency
p (or q) = Allele copies ÷ Total alleles

Worked Example

Scenario: Allele copies 120; total alleles 400.
Step 1: 120 ÷ 400 = 0.30
Answer: Allele frequency is 0.30.

Common Use Cases

  • Homework: population genetics
  • Study: Hardy–Weinberg inputs
  • Lab: gel-band counts

Pro Tips

  • Count alleles, not just individuals
  • Pair with HW heterozygote
  • Label which allele

Limitations: Biology Allele Frequency results are educational biology study aids—not medical diagnosis, clinical advice, or ecological management guidance. Confirm formulas and units with your textbook or instructor.

FAQ

Is this the same as phenotype frequency?

No. Phenotype frequency counts individuals. Allele frequency counts gene copies.

What if total alleles is 0?

Frequency is undefined—enter a positive total.

Authoritative References

For biology study concepts, consult: