Identify one of the given factors which does not affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.

Reproduction

The correct answer is Option (3) → Reproduction

The Hardy-Weinberg principle, also known as the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium or law, is a fundamental concept in population genetics that describes the conditions under which the frequency of alleles in a population remains constant and stable from generation to generation. Five factors are known to affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. These are gene migration or gene flow, genetic drift, mutation, genetic recombination and natural selection. 

Reproduction by itself (if random and without selection) does not disturb the equilibrium — it’s assumed in the Hardy–Weinberg model.

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is based on the following assumptions:

1. Large Population Size: The population is sufficiently large to minimize the effects of random genetic drift.
2. No Migration: There is no migration of individuals into or out of the population.
3. Random Mating: Individuals mate randomly with respect to their genotypes.
4. No Mutation: There is no new genetic variation introduced through mutation.
5. No Natural Selection: No selective forces are acting to favor specific genotypes over others.