genetic drift
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
Random changes in how common certain gene versions are within a population, unrelated to whether they help the organism survive.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "In very small populations, _____ can cause a trait to become common or disappear purely by chance."
Answer: genetic drift
In your own words, what does "genetic drift" mean?
Random changes in how common certain gene versions are within a population, unrelated to whether they help the organism survive.
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