Variation

Question 1

What is variation?

Answer 1

Differences in characteristics of individuals in a population.

Question 2

What causes variation?

Answer 2

• Genes (genetic causes)
• Environment (environmental causes)
• Or both.

Question 3

Give examples of characteristics caused by genetic variation.

Answer 3

Eye colour, inherited disorders.

Question 4

Give examples of characteristics caused by environmental variation.

Answer 4

Language spoken, scars.

Question 5

What is a mutation?

Answer 5

A change in a DNA sequence.

Question 6

How often do mutations occur?

Answer 6

Continuously, usually with no or little effect.

Question 7

What can mutations lead to?

Answer 7

A new phenotype that may be beneficial or harmful.

Question 8

What is the link between mutations and natural selection?

Answer 8

Beneficial mutations may lead to evolution through natural selection.