Charle Darwin made theory of natural selection but couldn't explain why there is variation within populations. Explain two reasons why there is variation within population ?
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Certainly! There are a few reasons why there is variation within populations, which can help explain why Charles Darwin couldn't provide a complete explanation for this phenomenon. Here are two key reasons:
1. Genetic Variation: One reason for variation within a population is due to genetic differences. Genetic variation arises from random mutations in an organism's DNA, which can introduce new alleles or variations of genes. These mutations may result in altered physical characteristics, such as color, size, or behavior. Genetic variation is necessary for natural selection to act upon, as it allows individuals with certain favorable traits to survive and reproduce while others may not.
2. Sexual Reproduction: Another major contributor to variation within a population is sexual reproduction. During this process, genetic material from two individuals (male and female) combines, resulting in a unique combination of genes in the offspring. Each parent contributes half of their genetic material to the offspring, which can lead to a wide range of possible combinations. Sexual reproduction introduces new genetic variations into populations, allowing for further diversity in traits and characteristics.
By understanding these reasons, it becomes clear how genetic variation and sexual reproduction contribute to the overall variation within populations. This variation is crucial for adaptation and the subsequent functioning of natural selection, as individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to future generations.