The Hardy-Weinberg Theorem basically states that if no evolution is occurring, then the allele frequencies will remain in equilibrium in each succeeding generation of sexually reproducing individuals. In order for equilibrium to remain in effect (i.e. that no evolution is occurring), then the following five conditions must be met:
1. No mutations must occur so that new alleles do not enter the population.
2. No gene flow can occur (i.e. no migration of individuals into, or out of, the population).
3. Random mating must occur (i.e. individuals must pair by chance)
4. The population must be large so that no genetic drift (random chance) can cause the allele frequencies to change.
5. No selection can occur so that certain alleles are not selected for, or against.
To estimate the frequency of alleles in a population, we can use the Hardy-Weinberg equation. According to this equation:
p = the frequency of the dominant allele q = the frequency of the recessive allele
For a population in genetic equilibrium:
p + q = 1.0 (The sum of the frequencies of both alleles is 100%.) (p + q)2 = 1
The three terms of this binomial expansion indicate the frequencies of the three genotypes:
p2 = frequency of AA (homozygous dominant)
2pq = frequency of Aa (heterozygous)
q2 = frequency of aa (homozygous recessive)
Notice that allele frequencies are represented by p and by q, whereas genotype frequencies of individuals are represented by p2, 2pq and q2.
Answer the following questions using the Hardy-Weinberg equation. Be sure to express the relative frequencies as decimals (i.e., 0.16) and percentages as percentages (i.e., 16%)
**NOTE: The system has the "correct" answers denoted by the above format**