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

Options

A. Random mating
B. Genetic recombination during gametogenesis
C. Natural selection
D. Variations due to mutations

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium**: The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium describes a theoretical state in a population where allele frequencies remain constant over generations, indicating no evolution is occurring. This equilibrium is maintained under certain conditions.

2. **Conditions for Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium**: For a population to be in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, the following conditions must be met:
- No mutations
- No gene flow (immigration or emigration)
- Random mating
- Large population size (no genetic drift)
- No natural selection

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A: Random Mating**: This is a condition that supports Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. It does not lead to evolution, as it ensures that all individuals have an equal chance of mating.
- **Option B: Genetic Recombination during Gametogenesis**: This process can introduce new combinations of alleles, potentially leading to evolution. Therefore, it affects Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
- **Option C: Natural Selection**: This is a mechanism of evolution that can change allele frequencies in a population, thus affecting Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
- **Option D: Variation due to Mutation**: Mutations introduce new alleles into a population, which can also lead to changes in allele frequencies, affecting Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.

4. **Conclusion**: The factor that does not affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is **random mating**. This is because random mating does not change allele frequencies and thus does not lead to evolution.

**Final Answer**: Random mating is not affected by Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.

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