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Multiple Choice
Which of the following would be an example of neutral variation?
A
A mutation that increases an organism's ability to survive in its environment
B
A deletion of a gene that is essential for survival
C
A change in a DNA sequence that does not alter the amino acid sequence of a protein
D
A genetic change that results in a new, beneficial trait
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of neutral variation: Neutral variation refers to genetic changes that do not affect an organism's fitness. These changes neither benefit nor harm the organism's ability to survive and reproduce.
Identify the key characteristic of neutral variation: It involves changes in the DNA sequence that do not lead to changes in the protein's function or structure. This often occurs when a mutation does not alter the amino acid sequence of a protein due to the redundancy of the genetic code.
Analyze the options provided: Consider each option and determine whether the genetic change described affects the organism's fitness or the protein's function.
Evaluate the option 'A change in a DNA sequence that does not alter the amino acid sequence of a protein': This option describes a synonymous mutation, where the change in the DNA sequence does not change the resulting protein, fitting the definition of neutral variation.
Conclude that the correct example of neutral variation is a change in a DNA sequence that does not alter the amino acid sequence of a protein, as it does not impact the organism's fitness or the protein's function.