Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Natural and artificial selection

Natural and artificial selection — practice question

In continuous variation, a population displays a spectrum of phenotypes between two extremes, with no clear-cut groups. Height and mass are examples of phenotypic traits that show continuous variation.
(a)[3]

Describe how continuous variation is genetically determined.

(b)[2]

Environmental factors can also contribute to continuous variation. Suggest two environmental factors that may influence the body mass of an animal.

(c)[4]

Humans have used selective breeding (artificial selection) for thousands of years to improve livestock quality. Outline the principles behind selective breeding in livestock.

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This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Each allele has a small additive effect

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