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Question #46450
The Question
According to the Hardy-Weinberg principle, allele frequencies in a population remain constant under specific conditions. If a large, randomly mating population experiences a severe bottleneck event reducing it to a few individuals, all of the following statements regarding its subsequent genetic structure are true, EXCEPT:
Options
- A.
The assumption of a large population size is violated, causing allele frequencies (p and q) to fluctuate randomly.
- B.
The fixation or loss of alleles in the surviving population will be primarily driven by natural selection rather than stochastic sampling error.
- C.
The equation p² + 2pq + q² = 1 becomes invalid for accurately predicting genotypic frequencies in the immediate future generations.
- D.
The proportion of heterozygotes (2pq) is likely to decrease over time due to the amplified effects of genetic drift.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Variables|Allele Frequency Drift
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse the mechanisms of Natural Selection (deterministic, fitness-based) with Genetic Drift (stochastic, chance-based).
The trap relies on the misconception that any evolutionary change in allele frequency must be an adaptive response driven by natural selection, failing to recognize that in drastically reduced populations, random sampling error dictates allele survival regardless of biological fitness.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Evolution - Class 12 |
| Concept | Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Variables |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |