Neutral theory proposes that
A)molecular clocks are more reliable when DNA mutations occur on the nitrogenous bases,thymine (T)and adenine (A).
B)most mutations of highly conserved DNA sequences should have no functional effect.
C)DNA is less susceptible to mutation when it codes for amino acid sequences whose side groups (or R groups)have a neutral pH.
D)DNA is less susceptible to mutation when it codes for amino acid sequences whose side groups (or R groups)have a neutral electrical charge.
E)a significant proportion of mutations are not acted upon by natural selection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Neutral theory proposes that a significant proportion of mutations are not acted upon by natural selection, and therefore accumulate in populations without affecting their fitness. This is in contrast to the traditional view of evolution, which assumes that all mutations are subject to selection and therefore only those that provide a fitness advantage are passed on to future generations. The neutral theory has been supported by studies of molecular evolution, which have shown that many genetic changes in DNA sequences have no effect on the phenotype and are therefore neutral with respect to selection.

Neutral Theory Proposes That