QuestionBIOL 0300
2. Assume that a new beneficial mutant allele appeared in a population. i. In which population would the frequency of the beneficial allele increase more quickly, a small population or a large population? Explain. ii. After how many generations would the frequency of the beneficial allele show the greatest increase, four generations or 400 generations? Explain.

Studdy Solution
Over a short period, such as four generations, there may be some increase in the frequency of the beneficial allele, but it is limited by the number of generations.
Over a long period, such as 400 generations, there is more time for natural selection to act, leading to a greater increase in the frequency of the beneficial allele.
Therefore, the frequency of the beneficial allele would show the greatest increase after 400 generations.
Conclusion: i. The frequency of the beneficial allele would increase more quickly in a large population due to the stronger effect of natural selection. ii. The frequency of the beneficial allele would show the greatest increase after 400 generations due to the extended time for selection to act.