Question

Why is it easier to use allelic frequency than genotypic frequency to characterize a population's gene pool?

a)Genotypes appear and disappear randomly.
b)Alleles are temporary assemblages that break down with each new generation.
c)The gene pool can be described using fewer parameters.
d)You can always predict the allelic frequency but not necessarily the genotypic frequency.
e)Genotypes are not usually observable in the population.

Answer 1

Allelic frequency is easier to use than genotypic frequency to characterize a population's gene pool because genotypes are more transient and random, while allelic frequency requires fewer parameters and provides a simpler representation of the genetic makeup.

Step-by-step explanation:

Allelic frequency is easier to use than genotypic frequency to characterize a population's gene pool because:

1. Genotypes appear and disappear randomly, making it difficult to accurately track genotypic frequencies.
2. Alleles are temporary assemblages that can break down with each new generation, whereas genotypes are more stable and can persist for longer periods.
3. Characterizing the gene pool using allelic frequency requires fewer parameters and provides a simpler representation of the population's genetic makeup.

Overall, allelic frequency provides a more practical and efficient way to study and understand the genetic diversity of a population.