Final answer:
Population variation is the distribution of genotypes or phenotypes in a population, and it can be caused by factors such as genetic drift, mutation, differences in traits among individuals, or differences in reproductive rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Population variation refers to the distribution of genotypes or phenotypes in a population. It can be caused by factors such as genetic drift, mutation, differences in traits among individuals, or differences in reproductive rates.
An example of population variation caused by genetic drift is seen in Mendel's pea plants which had different genotypes for various traits. An example of population variation caused by mutation is the presence of different fur colors and patterns in domestic dogs. Population variation caused by differences in traits among individuals can be observed in the different forms and functions of prokaryotes versus eukaryotes. Lastly, differences in a population's reproductive rates can result in variations in allele frequencies and genotypes.