(a) State Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and mention the factors affecting the equilibrium of a population.
(b) What is convergent evolution? Give an example.

Explanation

(a) Hardy Weinberg Law or Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium : This law was proposed by British Mathematician Hardy and German Physicist E. Weinberg. The Law states that "Gene frequency of a Mendelian population remains constant through generations unless there are chromosomal aberrations, mutation etc to alter the genetic equilibrium". This law describes that when the population is in equilibrium there is no evolution. Evolution occurs only when the equilibrium is altered. The Mendelian population is a closely interbreeding group of organisms sharing a common gene pool. Evolutionary factors like mutation, migration, genetic drift, gene flow, and sexual reproduction are factors affect ing the equilibrium of a population.
(b) Convergent Evolution : The evolutionary process in which anatomically different structures in different groups of organisms evolve towards the same function. e.g: eyes of Octopus and mammals Wings of butterflies and birds. Flippers of whales and penguins. Tubers of sweet potato and potato.