Unit 4: Microevolution - Vocab Quiz

What does a gene pool in a population encompass?

• All potential genes in a population

• Dominant genes only

• Genes from the most fit individuals

• Genes introduced by mutation

Answer explanation

A gene pool in a population encompasses all potential genes, including both dominant and recessive genes, from all individuals.

Which effect describes a significant reduction in a population's size due to a sudden event?

• Advantageous traits

• Fitness

• Shrinking population (bottleneck effect)

• Gene Flow

Answer explanation

The bottleneck effect is a significant reduction in a population's size due to a sudden event.

What is non-random mating in evolution?

• Mating by chance

• Selection of mates based on specific traits

• Mating within a limited gene pool

• Mating that results in mutation

Answer explanation

Non-random mating in evolution refers to the selection of mates based on specific traits.

How do mutations contribute to evolution?

• They always improve fitness

• They reduce genetic variation

• They introduce new genetic variations

Answer explanation

Mutations contribute to evolution by introducing new genetic variations.

What is gene flow?

• Movement of individuals within a population

• Flow of genetic information during reproduction

• Transfer of genes from parents to offspring

• Movement of genes between populations

Answer explanation

Gene flow refers to the movement of genes between populations, allowing for the transfer of genetic information and contributing to genetic diversity.

What is the primary mechanism of natural selection?

• Survival of the strongest

• Survival and reproduction of the best adapted

• Random survival of individuals

• Survival of the most intelligent

Answer explanation

The primary mechanism of natural selection is the survival and reproduction of the best adapted individuals.

How can adaptations affect an organism's fitness?

• They guarantee survival

• They improve chances of survival and reproduction

• They make organisms more intelligent

• They always increase size and strength

Answer explanation

Adaptations improve an organism's chances of survival and reproduction by enhancing fitness.

What must occur for evolution to happen in a population?

• A constant environment

• No genetic variation

• Changes in the gene pool frequency

• Random mating patterns

Answer explanation

Evolution occurs in a population when there are changes in the gene pool frequency.

In evolutionary terms, what is 'fitness'?

• The physical strength of an organism

• The ability of an organism to live a long life

• The ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in its environment

• The ability of an organism to resist diseases

Answer explanation

Fitness refers to the ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in its environment.

What role do mutations play in evolution?

• They create new species instantly

• They always harm the organism

• They provide genetic variation needed for evolution

• They have no role in evolution

Answer explanation

Mutations provide genetic variation needed for evolution.