Question

Which item has the greatest effect on variation

mutation
agouti gene
gene shape
cell membrane structuire

Answer 1

Mutation is the factor with the greatest effect on variation, particularly regarding genetic traits such as coat color in mice, where it can lead to different phenotypic outcomes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided, mutation has the greatest effect on variation. It introduces new alleles into a population, which can have a significant impact on phenotypes. For example, mutations in genes, such as the agouti gene in mice, can affect coat color. The agouti gene (A) is dominant for mottled coat color over solid coloration (black or gray), and it works in tandem with another gene (C) responsible for pigment production.

A mutation that leads to the homozygous recessive cc genotype results in an albino mouse, regardless of the A gene allele, showing that gene C is epistatic to gene A. In cases of complete dominance, the wild-type allele produces the correct dosage of a gene product, like pigment for fur color, whereas mutant alleles may not. Consequently, mutation can lead to different phenotypic outcomes, such as the phenotypic ratio seen in genetic crosses.

Answer 2

A mutation refers to a natural phenomenon in which the sequence of DNA is modified in a living species. Although, genetic variation is the modification in both the genes and alleles, both throughout and amongst the population.

The mutations are associated with genetic variation as mutations are modifications in DNA. It only takes a single mutation to produce a huge influence, additionally, resulting in an evolutionary modification, which is based on the gathering of various mutations.