Question

Hardy-Weinberg Law / equilibrium model in population genetics means

• A. Allele and genotype frequencies in a population do not remain constant in the absence of other evolutionary influences
• B. Allele and genotype frequencies in a population remain constant in the absence of other evolutionary influences
• C. Allele and genotype frequencies in a population remain constant in the presence of other evolutionary influences
• D. Allele and genotype frequencies in a population defer in the absence of other evolutionary influences

Hint:

• Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) describes a hypothetical, non-evolving population.
• Conditions for HWE: No mutation, no gene flow, random mating, no natural selection, large population size.
• If HWE holds, allele frequencies (p, q) and genotype frequencies (p\(^2\), 2pq, q\(^2\) for two alleles) remain constant across generations.
• Deviations from HWE indicate that evolution is occurring.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium model in population genetics describes a scenario where allele and genotype frequencies in a population remain constant over generations, provided no other evolutionary influences are at play. This principle is foundational in understanding genetic variation. For a population to be in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, five conditions must be met:

1. Large Population Size: Prevents genetic drift.
2. No Migration: Ensures no alleles are added or lost.
3. No Mutation: Maintains allele frequencies.
4. Random Mating: No preferential mating.
5. No Natural Selection: All individuals have equal survival chances.

Under these conditions, allele frequencies (p and q) and genotype frequencies (p², 2pq, q²) remain constant. This model serves as a benchmark to identify when a population is evolving. Therefore, the correct answer is:

Allele and genotype frequencies in a population remain constant in the absence of other evolutionary influences.