Which of the following best describes genetic drift in the context of population evolution?

• A. A process by which individuals with advantageous traits survive and reproduce more successfully
• B. The movement of alleles between populations due to migration
• C. A random change in allele frequencies that occurs in small populations
• D. The introduction of new alleles into a population through mutation

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of genetic drift: Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population, particularly in small populations. These changes are not driven by natural selection but occur due to chance events, such as random survival or reproduction of individuals.
2. Differentiate genetic drift from other evolutionary processes: For example, natural selection involves non-random survival and reproduction based on advantageous traits, while gene flow refers to the movement of alleles between populations due to migration, and mutation introduces new alleles into a population.
3. Focus on the key characteristic of genetic drift: It is random and most impactful in small populations, where chance events can significantly alter allele frequencies over time.
4. Analyze the provided options: Eliminate choices that describe other processes (e.g., natural selection, gene flow, or mutation) and identify the one that aligns with the definition of genetic drift.
5. Select the correct answer: The option that describes genetic drift as 'A random change in allele frequencies that occurs in small populations' is the most accurate description.