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The random change in allele frequency from one generation to the next, with greater effect in small populations.State whether it is.

a.True.
B.False.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The statement is true; genetic drift refers to the random change in allele frequency between generations, which has a greater effect in small populations due to the high impact of each individual's genetic contribution.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question addresses genetic drift, a concept in Biology that refers to the random change in allele frequency from one generation to the next. This effect is especially pronounced in small populations. To provide a clear example, imagine a population where an allele carried by a single individual is lost if that individual does not reproduce. In a small population, the loss of even one individual can significantly alter the allele frequency because each individual's genetic contribution is proportionally larger than that of an individual in a large population. If an individual carrying a unique allele dies without offspring in a small population, that allele could be completely eliminated, substantially changing the population's genetic structure. However, in a larger population, the genetic contribution of any single individual is less significant, making the loss of an allele due to one individual's death less impactful. Genetic drift can lead to a random walk in allele frequencies, sometimes even leading to the fixation of a particular allele.

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