The frequency of a mutant gene in a population would be likely to increase if:

Correct answer: A. The genes were selectively advantageous.

  • A. The genes were selectively advantageous.
  • B. The genes were dominant.
  • C. The genes were sex-linked.
  • D. The population increased.

Explanation

The correct answer is that the frequency of a mutant gene in a population is likely to increase if the gene is selectively advantageous. Such genes confer benefits that enhance an organism's survival or reproductive success, leading to a higher likelihood of being passed on to future generations. This natural selection process causes the gene's frequency to increase over time.Option B is incorrect because dominance does not inherently affect a gene's frequency. Option C is incorrect because the sex-linkage of a gene does not influence its frequency increase. Option D is incorrect because population size alone does not impact gene frequency; it is the selective advantage of the gene that plays a key role.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Evolution

Evolution describes heritable change in populations over generations through variation, natural selection and adaptation. Lamarckism explains inheritance of acquired characteristics, while Darwinism explains selection of favourable inherited variations; these historical explanations must not be confused with the modern genetic account of evolutionary change.

Practise Evolution

814 free Evolution MCQs from Biology, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Biology questions like this

Biology is on 8 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Evolution questions