Neutral theory proposes that
A) molecular clocks are more reliable when the surrounding pH is close to 7.0.
B) most mutations of highly conserved DNA sequences should have no functional effect.
C) DNA is less susceptible to mutation when it codes for amino acid sequences whose side groups (or R groups) have a neutral pH.
D) DNA is less susceptible to mutation when it codes for amino acid sequences whose side groups (or R groups) have a neutral electrical charge.
E) a significant proportion of mutations are not acted upon by natural selection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Neutral theory proposes that a significant proportion of mutations are not acted upon by natural selection, meaning they are neutral and do not affect an organism's fitness. This is in contrast to the traditional view, which suggests that natural selection is the primary force shaping genetic variation. The neutral theory has been supported by observations of molecular evolution, which show that many substitutions in DNA and amino acid sequences are synonymous (i.e., they do not alter the amino acid sequence) or occur at a rate that is consistent with neutral evolution.

Neutral Theory Proposes That