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Multiple Choice
Which of the following factors affecting acid-base equilibrium is influenced by the size of the population in a Hardy-Weinberg context?
A
Genetic drift
B
Natural selection
C
Mutation rate
D
Gene flow
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the context of the problem: The problem is asking about factors affecting acid-base equilibrium, but it seems to be mistakenly referring to concepts from population genetics, specifically the Hardy-Weinberg principle.
Understand the Hardy-Weinberg principle: This principle is used in population genetics to describe the genetic variation in a population under certain conditions. It assumes no evolution is occurring, meaning allele and genotype frequencies remain constant from generation to generation in the absence of other evolutionary influences.
Clarify the factors listed: The factors mentioned (genetic drift, natural selection, mutation rate, gene flow) are all mechanisms of evolution that can affect allele frequencies in a population.
Focus on the factor related to population size: Genetic drift is the factor that is most influenced by the size of the population. It refers to random changes in allele frequencies, which have a more significant effect in small populations.
Conclude the analysis: In the context of the Hardy-Weinberg principle, genetic drift is the factor that is influenced by population size, as it can lead to significant changes in small populations, potentially affecting genetic equilibrium.