Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is not affected by which of the following factors?

Options

A. Random mating
B. Genetic recombination during gametogensis
C. Natural selection
D. Variations due to mutation

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium**:
- Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is a principle that states that the genetic variation in a population will remain constant from one generation to the next in the absence of disturbing factors. This means that allele frequencies in a population will remain stable over time if certain conditions are met.

2. **Identifying Factors Affecting Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium**:
- To determine which factors affect this equilibrium, we need to consider the conditions that can disrupt it. These include:
- Genetic recombination during gametogenesis
- Natural selection
- Mutations
- Non-random mating

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- The question asks which factor does NOT affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
- **Option A: Random mating** - This refers to mating that occurs without any preference for specific genotypes or phenotypes. Random mating does not change allele frequencies and thus does not disturb the equilibrium.
- **Option B: Genetic recombination during gametogenesis** - This introduces new combinations of alleles, which can lead to variations and affect allele frequencies.
- **Option C: Natural selection** - This process favors certain traits over others, leading to changes in allele frequencies over generations.
- **Option D: Mutations** - These are changes in the DNA sequence that can introduce new alleles into a population, affecting allele frequencies.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Among the options, **Option A (Random mating)** is the only factor that does not affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. It allows for the maintenance of allele frequencies, thus not causing evolution.

**Final Answer**: Option A (Random mating) does not affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.

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