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Wordabulary

population genetics

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

The branch of biology that studies how the frequency of genes changes within a population over time.

"Population genetics helped explain why sickle cell trait remains common in regions where malaria is widespread."

Usage notes

The Hardy-Weinberg principle gives population geneticists a baseline to compare real populations against, to see if evolution is actually occurring.

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "_____ helped explain why sickle cell trait remains common in regions where malaria is widespread."

Answer: population genetics

In your own words, what does "population genetics" mean?

The branch of biology that studies how the frequency of genes changes within a population over time.

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