In genetics, what is meant by the term variation?
Variation can result from mutation - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 6 - 2012
Question 6
In genetics, what is meant by the term variation?
Variation can result from mutation. Name one other cause of variation.
Name two types of mutation.
(i)
(ii)
... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In genetics, what is meant by the term variation?
Variation can result from mutation - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 6 - 2012
Step 1
In genetics, what is meant by the term variation?
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Variation in genetics refers to the differences within a population or between individuals of a species. These differences can arise from various factors such as genetic makeup, environmental influences, or sexual reproduction mechanisms.
Step 2
Variation can result from mutation. Name one other cause of variation.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
One other cause of variation is sexual reproduction, where independent assortment and recombination of genes occur during meiosis.
Step 3
Name two types of mutation.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
(i) Gene mutation
(ii) Chromosome mutation
Step 4
Name two agents responsible for increased rates of mutation.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
(i) Radiation (e.g., UV or ionizing radiation)
(ii) Chemical mutagens (e.g., certain chemicals that alter DNA)
Step 5
Briefly explain the significance of mutation in relation to natural selection.
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Mutations can lead to the emergence of new phenotypes or features within a population. These changes may provide organisms with advantages or disadvantages in their environment. Beneficial mutations can enhance survival and reproduction, thereby contributing to the process of natural selection, where favorable traits become more common in subsequent generations.
Join the Leaving Cert students using SimpleStudy...
