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Multiple Choice
Which of the following evolutionary forces can introduce new genetic variation into a population?
A
Non-random mating
B
Genetic drift
C
Natural selection
D
Mutation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that evolutionary forces are mechanisms that can change the genetic makeup of a population over time.
Recognize that mutation is a process that introduces new genetic variations by altering DNA sequences, which can lead to new traits in a population.
Differentiate mutation from other evolutionary forces: Non-random mating, genetic drift, and natural selection do not introduce new genetic material but rather alter the frequency of existing alleles.
Non-random mating affects allele frequencies by preferentially selecting mates, genetic drift causes random changes in allele frequencies, and natural selection increases the frequency of advantageous alleles.
Conclude that mutation is the only evolutionary force among the options provided that can introduce new genetic variation into a population.