variation

• What is meant by variation in biology?

  Differences in characteristics of individuals
• What are the three main causes of variation?

  Genetic, environmental, and combined causes
• How do environmental factors cause variation?

  They influence characteristics like flower color
• How do mutations contribute to genetic variation?

  They cause random changes to DNA
• What is the effect of most mutations on phenotype?

  Most have no effect at all
• How can some mutations influence phenotype?

  By affecting traits like tallness
• What is a key idea about mutations and phenotypes?

  Very rarely can lead to a new phenotype
• How can a beneficial mutation affect a species?

  It can lead to rapid change in the species
• What are the types of variation in a population?

  • Genetic variation
  • Environmental variation
  • Combined genetic and environmental variation
• What are the effects of mutations on phenotype?

  • Most mutations have no effect
  • Some mutations can influence phenotype
  • Rarely, mutations can lead to new phenotypes
• How does height in humans illustrate variation?

  • Influenced by genetic factors (alleles)
  • Affected by environmental factors (diet)
• What role do mutations play in evolution?

  • Introduce genetic variation
  • Can lead to beneficial traits
  • May cause rapid changes in species