Variation
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 6.2.1
Variation
Within a population, variation describes differences in the characteristics of individuals. Variation may be a result of differences in:
Genetics
- Genetics (inherited genes).
- All genetic variation is the result of mutations, some of which are then inherited and passed onto the next generation.
The environment
- The conditions in which the organism developed.
Genetics and environment
- A combination of genetic and environmental causes.
Test yourself on Variation
What is the origin of all genetic variation within a population?
What is true about mutations that do change an organism's phenotype?
Why has human brain size increased over time?
What is likely to happen to a mutation that does not give an organism a survival advantage?
Why did the mutation for larger brain size spread through the human population, when most mutations do not spread?