Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

Definition

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is a principle stating that the genetic variation in a population will remain constant from one generation to the next in the absence of disturbing factors.

Related terms

Genetic Drift:

This refers to changes in allele frequencies due to random events or chance. It's like if wind (random event) suddenly pushed our seesaw off balance.

Mutation:

A mutation is a change in DNA sequence within a gene. It's like if someone changed the weight on one side of our seesaw, potentially throwing off our balance.

Non-random mating: This occurs when individuals with similar genotypes or phenotypes mate with each other more frequently than would be expected under random mating conditions. It's like if heavier kids (representing certain genotypes/phenotypes) always chose to sit together on one side of our seesaw.