Mendel's approach of using mathematics to explain biological phenomena was totally new.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Statement**: The statement claims that Mendel's use of mathematics to explain biological phenomena was a novel approach. We need to evaluate whether this is true or false.

2. **Historical Context**: Before Mendel, biological phenomena were primarily explained through qualitative observations rather than quantitative analysis. This means that most scientists did not apply mathematical principles to understand heredity and variation.

3. **Mendel's Contributions**: Gregor Mendel, through his experiments with pea plants, introduced the idea of using mathematical ratios to describe inheritance patterns. He formulated the laws of inheritance, which included concepts such as dominant and recessive traits.

4. **Acceptance of Mendel's Work**: At the time Mendel published his findings, they were largely ignored or dismissed by the scientific community. This indicates that his mathematical approach was not only new but also met with skepticism.

5. **Conclusion**: Given that Mendel's use of mathematics to explain biological phenomena was indeed a groundbreaking approach that was not previously utilized, we can conclude that the statement is true.

### Final Answer:
True, Mendel's approach of using mathematics to explain biological phenomena was totally new.

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