Question

Which of the following conditions will contribute to the stability of a gene pool in a natural population?
P. Large population
Q. No net mutation
R. Non-random mating
S. No selection

• A. P only
• B. P and Q only
• C. P and R only
• D. P, Q and S only

Hint:

For Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, the conditions that must hold are: large population, no mutation, no migration, random mating, and no selection.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The stability of a gene pool, as described by Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, requires the following conditions:
- Large population (P) helps to minimize genetic drift.
- No net mutation (Q) ensures that no new alleles are introduced into the gene pool.
- No selection (S) ensures that all individuals have equal reproductive success, which helps maintain allele frequencies.
Thus, non-random mating (R) does not contribute to stability and can alter the gene pool. Hence, the correct answer is (D).