In genetics, which of the following is used to study inheritance patterns?

Pedigree analysis is a valuable tool used in genetics to trace the inheritance of traits through generations of a family. By creating a family tree, researchers can visually represent how certain genetic conditions or traits are passed on from one generation to the next. This methodology allows scientists to identify patterns of inheritance, such as autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or sex-linked traits.

The systematic representation of family histories helps in determining the likelihood of an individual inheriting a specific trait based on their relatives’ genetic backgrounds. Pedigree analysis is particularly useful in human genetics, where it can assist in diagnosing genetic disorders and understanding their risk factors.

In contrast, gene sequencing focuses on determining the exact sequence of nucleotides in a DNA molecule, which provides insight into genetic variation but does not directly visualize inheritance patterns. Population sampling involves collecting data from different individuals within a population to study characteristics or traits, but this approach is broader and may not specifically address inheritance through familial lines. Lastly, ecological modeling pertains to the interaction between organisms and their environments, which is unrelated to the study of genetic inheritance.

Thus, pedigree analysis stands out as the most direct and effective method for studying inheritance patterns in genetic research.