Causes of Variation
Science: KS3, topic 1.2.16
Causes of Variation
Variation is what makes you different from your friends and family. We can see variation in all different organisms.
Genetic variation
- Genetic variation is when random mutations are passed down from parent to child.
- The mutations that cause genetic variation occur in the DNA.
- Genetic variation is inherited.
Examples of genetic variation
- Examples of genetic variation include:
- Eye colour
- Blood group
- Skin colour
- If you can roll your tongue
- Natural hair colour
Environmental variation
- Environmental variation is variation that occurs due to the environment an organism is in.
- Examples of environmental variation include:
- Accent and language
- Scars
Both causes of variation
- Sometimes an organism's characteristics can be determined by both their environment and genetics.
- For example, height and weight are determined by both environment and genetics.
Desired characteristics
- Variation of any type can help an organism survive.
- Variations that help organisms survive are called desired characteristics.
Test yourself on Causes of Variation
What type of variations are responsible for characteristics like height and weight?
Select the correct statement in each pair.
A dog is born with a change in its DNA that gives it a new fur pattern. This change is passed on to her puppies. What type of variation is this an example of?