Question

A genetic study conducted over two generations found that the frequencies of genotypes in the first generation were AA: 0.36, Aa: 0.48, and aa: 0.16. In the second generation, genotype frequencies remained the same. According to the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, we can assume ________.a. negative assortative mating has maintained gene frequencies.b. mutations have likely occurred, resulting in the same frequency.c. mating in this population is random.d. the population is small and we cannot detect change.

Answer 1

The correct answer is option c. "mating in this population is random".

Step-by-step explanation:

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, also known as the Hardy-Weinberg principle, states that the frequencies of alleles and genotypes will remain the same until one or more evolutionary influences modify them. The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium will only be possible if mating in populations is random, and no external phenomena such as assortative mating takes place. Therefore, random mating must occurred in the population of this study.