population genetics
Population genetics is the study of how genetic variations occur and change within populations over time. It examines the distribution of genes, how traits are inherited, and the effects of factors like mutation, migration, and natural selection on genetic diversity. This discipline helps us understand evolution, adaptation, and the genetic health of species. By analyzing allele frequencies—the different forms of genes—scientists can predict how populations will evolve and respond to environmental changes, ultimately shedding light on the biological processes that shape life on Earth.
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Population genetics is a branch of biology that studies the genetic composition of groups of organisms, including how genes and traits vary within and between populations. It examines how evolutionary processes like natural selection, mutation, and genetic drift influence the frequency of different genetic traits over time. By understanding these dynamics, scientists can gain insights into evolution, species diversity, and how populations adapt to their environments. Essentially, it's about how genetics shapes the characteristics of groups of living things and how these characteristics change across generations.