Mutations and polymorphisms are both changes in a DNA sequence,but polymorphisms are more common because
A) they less severely affect the phenotype, so that individuals can reproduce and transmit them.
B) more people have them.
C) mutations are always lethal.
D) they more severely affect the phenotype, so that individuals cannot reproduce and transmit them.
E) mutations refer to a real situation, whereas a polymorphism is an idealized state that biologists hypothesized to explain genetic change.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Polymorphisms are more common because they are usually less severe and can be tolerated in individuals, allowing them to be passed down through generations. Mutations, on the other hand, may be lethal or cause significant health problems, making them less common in the population.

Mutations and Polymorphisms Are Both Changes in a DNA Sequence,but