Which factor is LEAST likely to disrupt genetic equilibrium in a large population?
Understand the Problem
The question asks which factor from the given options is LEAST likely to disrupt the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (genetic equilibrium) in a large population. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium describes the conditions under which allele and genotype frequencies in a population will remain constant from generation to generation. Any deviation from these conditions can lead to evolution. The five conditions are: no mutation, random mating, no gene flow, infinite population size, and no selection.
Answer
Somatic variation is the least likely factor to disrupt genetic equilibrium.
Somatic variation is the least likely factor to disrupt genetic equilibrium because it involves changes in body cells that are not passed on to offspring, unlike other factors that alter the population's gene pool.
Answer for screen readers
Somatic variation is the least likely factor to disrupt genetic equilibrium because it involves changes in body cells that are not passed on to offspring, unlike other factors that alter the population's gene pool.
More Information
Genetic equilibrium, also known as Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, describes the conditions under which the genetic makeup of a population remains stable over generations. Factors like mutations, natural selection, non-random mating, genetic drift, and gene flow can disrupt this equilibrium.
Tips
It's easy to confuse the different factors that affect genetic equilibrium. Remember that only changes that are inherited can disrupt the equilibrium.
Sources
- Objective Biology for NEET 2 Edition - vaia.com
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