The gene frequency for a particular characteristic in a population was determined to be 80% A (dominant allele) and 20% a (recessive allele). Fifty years later, the gene frequency was determined to be 60% A and 40% a. What does this change indicate about the gene pool?

This change indicates that the gene pool has shifted over time, likely due to natural selection. The dominant allele has become less common, while the recessive allele has become more common. This suggests that the recessive allele may be more beneficial in the current environment, and is thus being selected for.