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Multiple Choice
What is the original source of variation that natural selection can act upon?
A
Mutations
B
Gene flow
C
Genetic drift
D
Artificial selection
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that variation in a population is crucial for natural selection to occur. Without variation, all individuals would be equally fit, and natural selection would have no differential basis to act upon.
Recognize that mutations are changes in the DNA sequence of an organism. These changes can introduce new genetic variations by altering genes, which may result in new traits.
Consider gene flow, which is the transfer of genetic material between populations. This can introduce new alleles into a population, increasing genetic diversity.
Examine genetic drift, a mechanism of evolution that involves random changes in allele frequencies in a population. While it can lead to variation, it is more about the random loss or fixation of alleles rather than introducing new variation.
Differentiate artificial selection from natural selection. Artificial selection is the process by which humans breed plants and animals for particular traits. It does not introduce new variation but rather selects from existing variation.