netic variation refers to the differences in traits among individuals within a species

In this project, you will analyze claims about the causes of inherited genetic variation. You will then make your own claim based on prior knowledge. Next, you will defend your claim by conducting research to gather information that supports it. Finally, you will present your claim and defense in a typewritten paper. Background Information Genetic variation refers to the differences in traits among individuals within a species. Genetic differences help populations change over time as they adapt to changes in their environment. Individuals with traits that allow them to adapt to their environment survive and pass their genetic information to offspring. Individuals with traits that do not allow them to survive in their changing environment eventually die out. New gene combinations are formed during meiosis. Meiosis is a cell division process involved in the production of egg and sperm cells. In meiosis, two processes contribute to differences in genetic sequence: crossing over and assortment. Crossing over happens when genes are exchanged between chromosomes. In assortment, variation occurs because chromosomes are randomly distributed to the egg and sperm cells. The meeting of the sperm cell and the egg cell in sexual reproduction is also a random process; therefore, it creates differences in traits among offspring. Mutations are permanent changes in the sequence of DNA. Mutations may affect organisms in three ways. Mutations may be beneficial, harmful, or neutral. Mutations may occur during the DNA replication process or may be caused by environmental factors such as exposure to chemicals and high-energy light such as X-rays. The changes in the sequence of a gene may affect the type of protein produced or the function of a protein. The expression of traits can be affected by the environment. For example, organisms of a species may have different fur color based on the differences in the temperature of their habitat. Other factors that can affect variation within a species include diet and lifestyle.