/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 16 For the term genetic drift, what... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91影视

91影视

Log out

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 27: Problem 16

For the term genetic drift, what is drifting? Why is this an appropriate term to describe this phenomenon?

Short Answer

Expert verified
In the term 'genetic drift', what is drifting are the frequencies of different alleles (gene variants) in a population due to random chance. This is an appropriate term as this phenomenon is random and directionless, similar to the concept of an object drifting in water or air.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Genetic Drift

Genetic drift refers to the change in the frequency of an existing gene variant (allele) in a population due to random sampling of organisms. This can result in the elimination of certain genes from a population and a rise in prominence of others, purely by chance.
02

Understanding the phenomenon

This happens because when a population is small, chance events can cause certain alleles to disappear completely, which can significantly change the allelic and genotypic frequencies of a population. Over time, this process of chance mutation can lead to significant changes in the genetic composition of a population, leading to differences in physical characteristics and adaptation abilities.
03

Justification for the term 'drift'

The term 'drift' is suitable here because the changes in allelic frequencies within a population due to genetic drift are random and directionless, much like the uncontrolled movement or 'drifting' of an object being carried by water or wind. There is no 'drive' or preferred direction to these changes 鈥� they simply occur by chance.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91影视!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

What is the difference between a neutral and an adaptive evolutionary process? Describe two or more examples of each. At the molecular level, explain how mutations can be neutral or adaptive.

Describe the similarities and differences among directional, balancing, disruptive, and stabilizing selection.

For a gene existing in two alleles, what are the allele frequencies when the heterozygote frequency is at its maximum value, assuming Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium? What if there are three alleles?

When two populations frequently intermix due to migration, what are the long- term consequences with regard to allele frequencies and genetic variation?

In a population, the frequencies of two alleles are \(B=0.67\) and \(b=\) \(0.33\). The genotype frequencies are \(B B=0.50, B b=0.37\), and \(b b=\) \(0.13\). Do these numbers suggest inbreeding? Explain why or why not.
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

Astrobiological Science

Read Explanation

Reproduction

Read Explanation

Ecosystems

Read Explanation

Responding to Change

Read Explanation

Energy Transfers

Read Explanation

Plant Biology

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.