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Multiple Choice
When a population is in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, which of the following statements is true?
A
Genetic drift leads to a loss of genetic variation.
B
Natural selection causes allele frequencies to change rapidly.
C
Allele and genotype frequencies remain constant from generation to generation.
D
Mutations occur at a high rate, altering allele frequencies each generation.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. It is a principle stating that allele and genotype frequencies in a population remain constant from generation to generation in the absence of evolutionary influences.
Step 2: Identify the conditions required for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium to hold true. These include: no mutations, random mating, no natural selection, extremely large population size (to prevent genetic drift), and no migration (gene flow).
Step 3: Analyze each statement provided in the problem and compare it to the conditions of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. For example, genetic drift, natural selection, and high mutation rates are evolutionary forces that disrupt equilibrium.
Step 4: Focus on the correct statement: 'Allele and genotype frequencies remain constant from generation to generation.' This aligns with the definition of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, as it describes the population in a stable state without evolutionary influences.
Step 5: Conclude that the other statements are incorrect because they describe processes (genetic drift, natural selection, and mutations) that would disrupt Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium by altering allele frequencies.