Multiple Choice
Imagine that you are a researcher modeling evolutionary processes in a lab using a population of fruit flies. Which of the following Hardy-Weinberg conditions would be easiest to be sure that you are meeting in the lab?
22. Evolution of Populations
Assumptions of the Hardy-Weinberg Principle
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When broken, which assumption of the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium does not cause evolution on its own?
A
Random mating.
B
Infinite population size.
C
No gene flow.
D
No natural selection.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium: It is a principle that describes a non-evolving population where allele and genotype frequencies remain constant from generation to generation, given certain conditions.
Identify the assumptions of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium: These include random mating, infinite population size, no gene flow, no mutation, and no natural selection.
Consider the impact of breaking each assumption: Breaking any of these assumptions can lead to changes in allele frequencies, potentially causing evolution.
Focus on the assumption of random mating: Random mating means individuals pair by chance, not by any preference or selection. Breaking this assumption alone does not change allele frequencies directly, but it can affect genotype frequencies.
Conclude that breaking the assumption of random mating does not cause evolution on its own: While it can lead to changes in genotype frequencies, it does not alter allele frequencies directly, thus not causing evolution by itself.
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