Multiple Choice
Which of the following populations is most likely to be in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
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22. Evolution of Populations
The Hardy-Weinberg Principle
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Which of the following statements correctly describes a population in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
A
The population is experiencing natural selection that changes allele frequencies each generation.
B
Allele and genotype frequencies remain constant from generation to generation in the absence of evolutionary influences.
C
Individuals in the population are preferentially mating with close relatives.
D
Genetic drift is causing random changes in allele frequencies.
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Understand the concept of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium: It describes a population where allele and genotype frequencies remain constant from generation to generation, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include no mutation, random mating, no natural selection, infinite population size, and no gene flow.
Analyze the first statement: 'The population is experiencing natural selection that changes allele frequencies each generation.' This contradicts Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium because natural selection alters allele frequencies, violating one of the equilibrium conditions.
Evaluate the second statement: 'Allele and genotype frequencies remain constant from generation to generation in the absence of evolutionary influences.' This correctly describes Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, as it aligns with the definition and conditions of the equilibrium.
Examine the third statement: 'Individuals in the population are preferentially mating with close relatives.' This violates the condition of random mating, which is required for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
Assess the fourth statement: 'Genetic drift is causing random changes in allele frequencies.' Genetic drift occurs in small populations and causes random changes in allele frequencies, violating the condition of infinite population size required for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
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