Select the factor which does not affect Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium?

The correct answer is Option (4) → Random mating

The Hardy-Weinberg principle says that allele frequencies in a population stay constant from generation to generation unless something disturbs them.

Option (1) Genetic drift — A factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Allele frequencies change by chance, most strongly in small populations.

Option (2) Mutation — A factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. A mutation creates new alleles.

Option (3) Genetic recombination — A factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Recombination during gametogenesis gives new combinations of genes.

Option (4) Random mating — Not a factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Random mating is one of the conditions under which the equilibrium holds; it keeps the frequencies steady.

Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 27-05-2023 (Slot 3).

NCERT Extract:
Hardy-Weinberg Principle – “… Five factors are known to affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. These are gene migration or gene flow, genetic drift, mutation, genetic recombination and natural selection. When migration of a section of population to another place and population occurs, gene frequencies change in the original as well as in the new population.”