A scientist attempts to maintain a population of pea plants in a "non-evolving state" by trying to stimulate the conditions required for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. He places the plants in a contained area under controlled conditions (no factors limiting) and makes certain that all crosses conducted are completely random. Which conditions for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium have NOT been met?

Question

A scientist attempts to maintain a population of pea plants in a "non-evolving state" by trying to stimulate the conditions required for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. He places the plants in a contained area under controlled conditions (no factors limiting) and makes certain that all crosses conducted are completely random. Which conditions for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium have NOT been met?

I. no gene flow

II. no net mutations

III. random mating

IV. no natural selection

Answer 1

The conditions for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium are as follows:

I. no gene flow - This condition has been met as the scientist has placed the plants in a contained area, preventing gene flow from other populations.

II. no net mutations - This condition has been met as the scientist is ensuring that there are no mutations occurring within the population.

III. random mating - This condition has been met as the scientist is conducting crosses in a completely random manner.

IV. no natural selection - This condition has not been met. While the scientist may be controlling certain factors, such as limiting any factors that would cause the plants to not survive, natural selection can still occur within the population. Factors such as differential reproductive success based on certain traits can result in natural selection.