The Differences in Inherited Traits Among Individuals in a Population

Question

The differences in inherited traits among individuals in a population are called ________.
A) species variation
B) genetic mutations
C) genetic variation
D) natural selection
E) none of the answers are correct

Accepted Answer

The definition given in the question matches that of genetic variation, making it the correct answer. Species variation refers to differences between different species, not within a population. Genetic mutations are a type of genetic variation but do not encompass all inherited traits. Natural selection is the process by which certain traits become more or less common in a population over time, it is not the differences in inherited traits themselves.