Question

which of the following contribute to a populations heritable genetic variation? choose 2 answers: a sexual reproduction b mutations c acquired traits d natural selection

Explanation:

• Option A: Sexual reproduction (like meiosis and fertilization) shuffles genetic material (e.g., through crossing - over and independent assortment), creating new combinations of alleles in offspring, thus contributing to heritable genetic variation.
• Option B: Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence. If they occur in germ cells, they can be passed on to the next generation and introduce new genetic variants, contributing to heritable genetic variation.
• Option C: Acquired traits are changes in an organism's phenotype due to environmental factors or individual experiences (e.g., muscle growth from exercise). These changes do not affect the DNA of germ cells, so they are not heritable.
• Option D: Natural selection acts on existing heritable variation, favoring certain traits for survival and reproduction. It does not create new genetic variation but rather changes the frequency of existing alleles in a population.

Answer:

A. sexual reproduction, B. mutations