Question

When observed genotype frequencies are not equal to those expected using p², 2pq, and q², we have:

A) Genetic drift.
B) Mutation.
C) Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium.
D) Natural selection.

Answer 1

The correct answer is C) Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium, which occurs when observed genotype frequencies in a population do not match the expected frequencies from the Hardy-Weinberg principle.

Step-by-step explanation:

When observed genotype frequencies are not equal to those expected using p², 2pq, and q², it indicates a Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium. The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium principle states that allele frequencies in a population will remain constant in the absence of factors such as mutation, gene flow, non-random mating, genetic drift, and natural selection. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium. This principle provides a mathematical model (p² + 2pq + q² = 1) to study population genetics and understand the factors that cause allele frequencies to shift, indicating microevolutionary changes in a population.