GATE 2022 BT – Question 36
Which of the following conditions will contribute to the stability of a gene pool in a natural population? P. Large population Q. No net mutation R. Non-random mating S. No selection
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Correct answer: (D) P, Q and S only
Explanation
The **Hardy-Weinberg** conditions describe a gene pool whose allele frequencies stay constant.
- **P. Large population:** a large population avoids random changes in allele frequency (genetic drift). Contributes to stability. ✓
- **Q. No net mutation:** mutation would add or change alleles. With no net mutation, frequencies are not altered. ✓
- **R. Non-random mating:** it changes genotype frequencies (for example through inbreeding or assortative mating). **Random** mating is required for stability, so this does not contribute. ✗
- **S. No selection:** selection changes allele frequencies, so its absence favours stability. ✓
Answer **P, Q and S only** (D).