Final answer:
New nonsynonymous mutations occur randomly with respect to fitness, are greater in number in a large population than a small population, and are most often deleterious.
Step-by-step explanation:
New nonsynonymous mutations:
- occur randomly with respect to fitness
- are greater in number in a large population than a small population
- are most often deleterious
Yes, all of the above statements are correct. Nonsynonymous mutations are changes in DNA that result in an amino acid change in the corresponding protein. These mutations can occur randomly with respect to fitness, meaning their occurrence is not influenced by how beneficial or harmful they may be. They are also more abundant in large populations compared to small populations, as there are more opportunities for these mutations to arise and be passed on. The majority of nonsynonymous mutations are deleterious, meaning they negatively impact the fitness of an organism. However, it is important to note that not all nonsynonymous mutations are deleterious; some can be neutral or even beneficial.