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Variation

Genetic and environmental variation in organisms

What you'll cover

  • Genetic vs environmental variation
  • Continuous and discontinuous variation
  • Factors affecting phenotype

Study this topic

1

Types of Variation

Notes2

Sources of Genetic Variation

Notes3

Visual: Variation

Diagram4

How It Works: How Variation Arises

How It Works5

Key Definitions

Definitions6

Common Misconceptions

Misconceptions7

Memory Aids

Memory Aid8

Exam Focus

Exam Focus9

Knowledge Organiser

Summary10

Exam Tips: Variation

Exam Tips

Sample Flashcards

Give examples of discontinuous variation.
Examples include blood type and eye color, which have distinct categories rather than a continuous range.
Explain the role of mutations in genetic variation.
Mutations are random changes in DNA sequence that can result in genetic variation. They occur when there is an error during DNA replication or repair.

Sample Questions

What is the main difference between genetic variation and environmental variation?

  • A. Genetic variation is caused by differences in DNA, environmental variation is caused by external factors
  • B. Genetic variation affects all organisms equally, environmental variation affects each organism differently
  • C. Genetic variation is reversible, environmental variation is permanent
  • D. Genetic variation only affects physical traits, environmental variation only affects behavioral traits
1 markfoundation

Explain how mutations contribute to genetic variation in populations.

4 marksstandard

25

exam-style questions

20

revision flashcards

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