The symbol of empty circles used in pedigree analysis represents

Options

A. Normal females
B. Normal males
C. Affected females
D. Affected males

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Pedigree Analysis**:
- Pedigree analysis is a method used to study the inheritance of traits across generations in a family. It visually represents the relationships and phenotypic characteristics of individuals.

2. **Symbols in Pedigree Analysis**:
- In pedigree charts, specific symbols are used to represent individuals.
- Females are represented by circles, while males are represented by squares.

3. **Interpreting the Symbols**:
- An empty (unshaded) circle represents a female who is unaffected by the trait being studied.
- Conversely, a shaded circle indicates an affected female.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- The question asks specifically about the symbol of empty circles.
- The options provided are:
- Normal females
- Normal males
- Affected females
- Affected males

5. **Identifying the Correct Answer**:
- Since an empty circle represents an unaffected female, the correct answer is "normal females".
- The other options (normal males, affected females, affected males) do not correspond to the symbol of an empty circle.

### Final Answer:
The symbol of empty circles used in pedigree analysis represents **normal females**.

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