Question:

Which of the given factors can affect frequency in Mendelian population?
A. Migration
B. Mutation
C. Selection
D. Random shift

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Show Hint

The five conditions for a population to be in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (i.e., not evolving) are: No mutation, No migration, No selection, Large population size (to avoid genetic drift), and Random mating. Any factor that violates these conditions will affect allele frequencies.
Updated On: Sep 17, 2025
  • A, B and D only
  • A, B and C only
  • A, B, C and D
  • B, C and D only
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks about the factors that can alter allele and genotype frequencies in a Mendelian population. This relates to the principles of population genetics, specifically the forces that cause a population to evolve and deviate from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Hardy-Weinberg principle states that allele frequencies in a population will remain constant in the absence of certain evolutionary influences. These influences are the factors that cause changes in allele frequencies. Let's analyze the given factors:


A. Migration (Gene Flow): The movement of individuals into or out of a population can introduce new alleles or change the proportions of existing alleles, thus affecting the allele frequency.

B. Mutation: The ultimate source of all new genetic variation. Mutations create new alleles, directly changing the allele frequency, although usually at a very slow rate.

C. Selection (Natural Selection): When certain genotypes have a higher fitness (survival and reproductive success) than others, the alleles responsible for those genotypes will increase in frequency over generations.

D. Random shift (Genetic Drift): This refers to random, chance fluctuations in allele frequencies, which have a more significant effect in smaller populations. It's a non-selective force that can lead to the loss or fixation of alleles.

Step 3: Final Answer:
All four factors—Migration, Mutation, Selection, and Genetic Drift (Random shift)—are the primary evolutionary forces that can affect allele frequencies in a population.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Questions Asked in CUET PG exam

View More Questions