GENETIC VARIATION
Nolan Wible
WHAT IS GENETIC VARIATION?
Genetic variation, variation in alleles, of genes, occurs both within and among populations. Genetic variation is important because it provides the genetic material for natural selection. Genetic variation is brought about by mutation, which is a permanent change in the chemical structure of a gene.
EXAMPLES OF GENETIC VARIATION?
Genetic variation usually takes the dominant alleles in natural selection. As the years go on, people slowly evolve and get stronger. Over hundreds of years, humans have gotten stronger and healthier. People and athletes in general are able to perform better because of increased size and overall health. Another example is how people living in Africa, near the equator have darker skin, so they can handle the sun's harmful rays.