AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Genetic variations that alter gene activity or protein function can introduce different traits in an organism. If a trait is advantageous and helps the individual survive and reproduce, the genetic variation is more likely to be passed to the next generation (a process known as natural selection).

Detailed explanation-2: -Mutations, the changes in the sequences of genes in DNA, are one source of genetic variation. Another source is gene flow, or the movement of genes between different groups of organisms. Finally, genetic variation can be a result of sexual reproduction, which leads to the creation of new combinations of genes.

Detailed explanation-3: -variation, in biology, any difference between cells, individual organisms, or groups of organisms of any species caused either by genetic differences (genotypic variation) or by the effect of environmental factors on the expression of the genetic potentials (phenotypic variation).

Detailed explanation-4: -The factor that is the most likely to increase genetic variation in a population is b. mutations. Mutations create new genetic information in organisms and if those changes can be passed down to offspring (heritable), then they will effect natural selection and ultimately the evolution of a species.

Detailed explanation-5: -Genetic variation is a measure of the genetic differences that exist within a population. The genetic variation of an entire species is often called genetic diversity. Genetic variations are the differences in DNA segments or genes between individuals and each variation of a gene is called an allele.