Multiple Choice
What is the Hardy-Weinberg Principle useful for to geneticists?
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22. Evolution of Populations
The Hardy-Weinberg Principle
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Which of the following is a characteristic of a population at Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
A
Allele frequencies remain constant from generation to generation.
B
Mutations are introducing new alleles at a high rate.
C
Natural selection is actively changing allele frequencies.
D
Gene flow occurs frequently between populations.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium: It describes a population in which allele frequencies remain constant over generations, provided certain conditions are met.
Review the five conditions required for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium: (1) No mutations, (2) Random mating, (3) No natural selection, (4) Extremely large population size (no genetic drift), and (5) No gene flow (migration).
Analyze the given options: Determine which options violate the conditions of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. For example, mutations introduce new alleles, natural selection changes allele frequencies, and gene flow involves migration between populations.
Identify the correct characteristic: The only option that aligns with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is 'Allele frequencies remain constant from generation to generation,' as this is the defining feature of a population in equilibrium.
Conclude that the other options describe processes that disrupt Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, such as mutations, natural selection, and gene flow, which all lead to changes in allele frequencies.
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