Chapter 12, Problem 1MCQ

Microevolution applies to changes that occur

a.	only within small populations of organisms.
b	in small genes.
c.	in the allele frequencies of a population or species.
d	in small cells such as bacteria.

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Microevolution is defined as the change in allele frequency of a population that occurs over time. The reason behind the microevolution is mutation, gene flow, natural selection, artificial selection, and genetic drift.

Answer to Problem 1MCQ

Correct answer:

Microevolution applies to changes that occur in the allele frequencies of a population or species. Hence, the correct answer is option c..

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct answer:

Option c. is given as, “In the allele frequency of a population or species.”

Microevolution is caused due to mutation, gene flow, natural selection, artificial selection, and genetic drift. These factors bring variation in the genome and affect the allele frequency of a population or species.

Reason for incorrect answer:

Option a. is given as, “Only within small populations of the organisms.”

Microevolution is based on the alteration of the gene frequency of a population. The size of the population has a minimum impact on the pace of microevolution. Hence, option a. is incorrect.

Option b. is given as, “in small genes.”

Microevolution can affect both small and large genes. Hence, option b. is incorrect.

Option d. is given as, “In small cells such as bacteria.”

Microevolution is seen in all kinds of population, both small unicellular cells as well as large organisms that are reproduced by sexual reproduction.

Hence, option d. is incorrect.

Hence, the options a., b., and d. are incorrect.

Conclusion

Microevolution is a result of gene alteration and applies to the changes` that occur in the allele frequencies of a population or species. Thus, the correct option is c..