Loading…
Loading…
GCSE Combined Science · key term
Differences in genetic material between individuals within a population.
Used by AQA and Edexcel
Specification 4.6.1.1, 4.6.2.1, 4.6.2.3 · Paper 2
Differences in genetic information between individuals.
Differences between individuals caused by differences in the genetic material they have inherited.
Differences in genetic information between individuals in a population.
Paper 1, Paper 2
Differences in genetic material between individuals, arising through mutation and sexual reproduction.
Revise: Polygenic features and phenotypic variationGenetic variation means differences in genetic material between individuals. Two causes are mutation and sexual reproduction, but they contribute in different ways.
Explain the disadvantage as a chain: closely related parents → reduced genetic variation → greater risk of inherited defects or vulnerability to disease.
When explaining genetic variation, name both mutation and sexual reproduction. Mutation changes genetic material; sexual reproduction produces new combinations of alleles.
Create a free account to read GCSE Combined Science revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.