Question

Each generation is a ______ sample of the gametes produced by the previous generation. Drift is a __________ spread across generations.

A) Random; directional
B) Stratified; non-random
C) Representative; random
D) Selective; continuous

Answer 1

The correct answer is A) Random; directional, as genetic drift is the random change in allele frequencies that can cause a directional change in the genetic composition of a population over generations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Each generation is a random sample of the gametes produced by the previous generation. Drift is a random process spread across generations.

The correct answer is A) Random; directional. Genetic drift is the random change in allele frequencies within a small population, where allele frequencies can shift due to chance events rather than selective pressures.

Because each individual has an equal chance of passing on their alleles, a random sample of gametes represents the next generation. Over time, this random process can lead to a directional change in the genetic composition of a population, which may include the loss of certain alleles.