Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow :-
In a given population one can find out the frequency of occurrence of alleles of a gene or a locus. This frequency is supposed to remain fixed and even remain the same through generations. Hardy-Weinberg principle stated it using algebraic equations. This principle says that allele frequencies in a population are stable and is constant from generation to generation. The gene pool remains a constant. This is called genetic equilibrium.
What does the Hardy-Weinberg principle state about allele frequencies in a population?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → They remain constant from generation to generation
The passage states that “This principle says that allele frequencies in a population are stable and is constant from generation to generation”, and calls this state genetic equilibrium.
The Hardy-Weinberg principle describes a population in which the frequency of each allele stays the same through generations, so the gene pool stays constant. Any change in these frequencies is read as a sign of evolution.
Option (1) They vary randomly — Incorrect. Under the principle the frequencies do not vary at random; they stay fixed.
Option (2) They remain constant from generation to generation — Correct. The frequencies remain constant from generation to generation.
Option (3) They increase over time — Incorrect. A steady rise in an allele frequency would disturb the equilibrium, which the principle does not describe.
Option (4) They decrease over time — Incorrect. A steady fall would also disturb the equilibrium; the principle says the frequencies stay the same.