Final answer:
Gene duplication allows for the evolution of new functions by creating extra copies of genes in the genome.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gene duplication plays a significant role in evolution by allowing for the creation of extra copies of genes in the genome. These gene duplication events provide the opportunity for one copy to undergo mutations, selection, and drift to develop new functions, while the other copy continues to produce a functional protein. This process allows for the preservation of the original protein's function while allowing for the evolution of new functions.