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New alleles arise in a sexually reproducing population by A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2007 - Paper 1
Question 14
New alleles arise in a sexually reproducing population by A. mutations in DNA sequences prior to meiosis. B. random fertilisation of gametes during reproduction. C. ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:New alleles arise in a sexually reproducing population by A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2007 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. mutations in DNA sequences prior to meiosis.
Answer
Mutations in DNA are the primary source of genetic variation. These changes can introduce new alleles into a population, which can then be passed on to the next generation during reproduction. This process occurs before meiosis, making it a vital mechanism for the emergence of new alleles.
Step 2
B. random fertilisation of gametes during reproduction.
Answer
While random fertilisation of gametes contributes to genetic diversity, it does not create new alleles. Instead, it combines existing alleles from two parents, providing a diverse genetic makeup for offspring but not generating new genetic material.
Step 3
C. random assortment of homologous chromosomes during meiosis.
Answer
Random assortment during meiosis does shuffle alleles between homologous chromosomes but does not create new alleles. It contributes to genetic variation by producing different combinations of existing alleles in gametes.
Step 4