Final answer:
MHC polymorphism refers to the presence of multiple alleles for each individual MHC locus. It contributes to genetic diversity in the population and affects an individual's immune response.
Step-by-step explanation:
MHC polymorphism refers to the presence of multiple alleles for each individual MHC locus. In the context of a population, this means that there is a high degree of genetic diversity in the MHC genes.
This diversity is important for the population as it allows for a wider range of pathogens to be recognized by the immune system. As an individual, MHC polymorphism means that you are more likely to have a different set of MHC alleles compared to someone else in the population, which can affect your ability to mount an immune response to certain pathogens.