No two people are genetically identical, except for identical twins. The main source of genetic variation among human individuals is
A) new mutations that occurred in the preceding generation.
B) genetic drift due to the small size of the population.
C) the reshuffling of alleles in sexual reproduction.
D) geographic variation within the population.
E) environmental effects.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reshuffling of alleles in sexual reproduction (also known as recombination) is a key source of genetic variation among human individuals. This occurs when the genetic material from both parents combines to produce a unique set of alleles in each offspring. While new mutations can also create genetic variation, they are relatively rare and typically only affect a small portion of the population. Genetic drift and geographic variation can also contribute to genetic variation, but they are not as significant as sexual reproduction. Environmental effects can influence gene expression, but they do not directly alter an individual's DNA sequence.

No Two People Are Genetically Identical, Except for Identical Twins