Identify a factor, which does not affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.

The correct answer is Option (3) → Decomposition

The Hardy-Weinberg principle says that allele frequencies in a population stay constant from generation to generation, so that \( p^2 + 2pq + q^2 = 1 \). The equilibrium is disturbed by five factors: gene migration (gene flow), genetic drift, mutation, genetic recombination and natural selection.

(1) Gene flow — A factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Migration adds alleles to one population and removes them from another.

(2) Genetic drift — A factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Chance changes in allele frequency, mostly in small populations.

(3) Decomposition — Not a factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. It is the breakdown of dead matter by microbes. It does not change allele frequencies.

(4) Genetic recombination — A factor that affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. It shuffles alleles into new combinations.

NCERT Extract:
Hardy-Weinberg Principle – …