The Hardy-Weinberg Principle

The Hardy-Weinberg Principle is a way to predict how common genetic traits are in a large, ideal population that isn't affected by evolution. It shows that if certain conditions—no mutation, random mating, no natural selection, large population size, and no migration—are met, then the proportions of different genes (alleles) and traits (genotypes) stay constant over generations. This principle provides a baseline to compare real populations and see if and how evolution occurs. Essentially, it helps us understand genetic stability and change over time in populations.