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Inheritance & EvolutionKey Facts

Sources of Genetic Variation

Part of Variation · GCSE GCSE Biology revision

This key facts covers Sources of Genetic Variation within Variation for GCSE Biology. Genetic and environmental variation in organisms It is section 2 of 10 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 2 of 10

Practice

26 questions

Recall

12 flashcards

Sources of Genetic Variation

  • Mutations: Random changes in DNA sequence
  • Sexual reproduction: Mixing of alleles from two parents
  • Meiosis: Random assortment of chromosomes; crossing over

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Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Variation. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Types of VariationVisual: VariationHow It Works: How Variation ArisesKey Definitions

Practice Questions for Variation

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

Quick Recall Flashcards

What are the two main causes of genetic variation?
1. Mutations — random changes to DNA that create new alleles. 2. Sexual reproduction — combines alleles from two parents in unique combinations, producing offspring different from both parents.
What is variation in biology?
Differences in characteristics between individuals of the same species. Variation can be due to differences in genes (genetic variation), the environment, or a combination of both.

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