Question

Explain the five conditions that need to be met for a population to be at genetic equilibrium according to Hardy and Weinberg (The Hardy-Weinberg principle). Additionally, explain what conditions would have to have been met if the population evolved. Be detailed in your answer(s).

Answer 1

Five conditions that are required for a population to be at genetic equilibrium:

1. Population should be large. It makes sure that gene frequency doesn't change by chance alone.

2. No mutation: Mutation introduces new alleles into the population.

3. No natural selection: All genotype should be having equal chance of survival and reproduction.

4. No migration: Individuals should not immigrate or emmigrate. Migration adds new alleles and removes existing alleles.

5. Random mating: Mating should not be preferential. Random mating ensures that every individual is getting equal opportunity to pass on their genes.

If a population is in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium then it is not evolving. In a non evolving population there is no change in the allelic frequencies amongst various generations.

Population can evolve if there is a change in the allelic frequencies over the period of time. Allelic frequencies can be changed by natural selection, genetic drift, sexual selection, migration, mutation etc. These are the factors that can change the allelic frequencies and help in evolution.