AP BIOLOGY

EVOLUTION

HARDY WEINBERG EQUILIBRIUM

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
What does the Hardy-Weinberg equation measure?
A
changes in allele frequencies
B
numbers of mutations
C
goodness of fit
D
genetic diversity
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -The equation is an expression of the principle known as Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, which states that the amount of genetic variation in a population will remain constant from one generation to the next in the absence of disturbing factors.

Detailed explanation-2: -According to the Hardy–Weinberg principle (random pairing of alleles), alleles that are rare in a population (low starting frequency) are most often paired with alleles of another type, resulting in a heterozygous genotype.

Detailed explanation-3: -The Hardy-Weinberg Theorem deals with Mendelian genetics in the context of populations of diploid, sexually reproducing individuals. Given a set of assumptions (discussed below), this theorem states that: allele frequencies in a population will not change from generation to generation.

Detailed explanation-4: -In a population, allele frequencies are a reflection of genetic diversity. Changes in allele frequencies over time can indicate that genetic drift is occurring or that new mutations have been introduced into the population.

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