variation Flashcards
What is variation in science?
Variation refers to the differences in characteristics among individuals within a population.
True or False: All individuals in a species are genetically identical.
False
What are the two main types of variation?
Genetic variation and environmental variation.
Fill in the blank: Genetic variation is caused by __________.
mutations, gene flow, and sexual reproduction.
What is genetic variation?
Genetic variation is the diversity in gene frequencies within a population.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is an example of environmental variation? A) Eye color B) Height C) Sun exposure D) Blood type
C) Sun exposure
What is the role of mutations in variation?
Mutations introduce new genetic material into a population, contributing to genetic variation.
True or False: Environmental factors can affect an organism’s phenotype.
True
What is phenotype?
Phenotype is the observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is the genetic makeup of an organism.
genotype
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a cause of genetic variation? A) Sexual reproduction B) Cloning C) Mutations D) Gene flow
B) Cloning
What is the significance of variation in a population?
Variation is essential for natural selection and adaptation to changing environments.
True or False: Variation only occurs in animals.
False
What is a trait?
A trait is a specific characteristic of an organism, which can be influenced by genetics and the environment.
Fill in the blank: __________ variation occurs due to differences in the environment.
Environmental
Multiple choice: Which of the following traits is primarily influenced by genetics? A) Language spoken B) Height C) Diet D) Education
B) Height
What is selective pressure?
Selective pressure is any cause that reduces reproductive success in a portion of a population.
True or False: All forms of variation are beneficial to a species.
False
What is a gene?
A gene is a segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building a specific protein.
Fill in the blank: The study of variation helps scientists understand __________.
evolution and biodiversity.
Multiple choice: Which factor contributes to genetic diversity? A) Inbreeding B) Genetic drift C) Natural selection D) All of the above
C) Natural selection
What is the difference between continuous and discontinuous variation?
Continuous variation shows a range of traits, while discontinuous variation shows distinct categories.
True or False: Discontinuous variation can be easily measured.
True
What is a population in scientific terms?
A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in a particular area.
Fill in the blank: __________ can lead to new traits appearing in a population over generations.
Natural selection
