Multiple Choice
Which of the following phenomena usually only has an effect on very small populations?
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22. Evolution of Populations
Genetic Drift
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Which of the following is true of genetic drift?
A
Genetic drift can lead to the fixation or loss of alleles in a population.
B
Genetic drift increases genetic variation within a population.
C
Genetic drift has a more significant effect in large populations.
D
Genetic drift is a process that results from natural selection.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of genetic drift: Genetic drift is a mechanism of evolution that refers to random changes in the frequency of alleles in a population. It is not driven by natural selection but rather by chance events.
Consider the effect of population size: Genetic drift has a more pronounced effect in small populations because random events can lead to significant changes in allele frequencies. In large populations, these random changes tend to average out, making genetic drift less impactful.
Analyze the impact on genetic variation: Genetic drift can lead to the fixation (where an allele becomes the only allele present) or loss of alleles, which can reduce genetic variation within a population over time.
Distinguish genetic drift from natural selection: Unlike natural selection, which increases the frequency of beneficial alleles, genetic drift is random and does not necessarily favor alleles that improve survival or reproduction.
Evaluate the statement options: Based on the understanding of genetic drift, identify which statements accurately describe its effects, such as its ability to lead to fixation or loss of alleles, and its more significant impact in small populations.
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