Genetic diversity within or between species can be compared by: the frequency of measurable or observable characteristics; the base sequence of DNA; the base sequence of mRNA; the amino acid sequence of the proteins encoded by DNA and mRNA
Scientists measure genetic diversity by comparing DNA sequences, mRNA sequences, protein amino acid sequences, or the spread of observable traits across individuals. More differences between sequences means greater genetic diversity.
Real World
Scientists compared cytochrome c amino acid sequences across species and found that humans and chimpanzees share an identical 104-amino-acid chain, while humans and yeast differ at 44 positions, reflecting their evolutionary distance.
Exam Focus
State the level of comparison explicitly — DNA base sequence, mRNA base sequence, amino acid sequence, or observable characteristics — don't just say 'genetics'.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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