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QuestionBiology

Imagine a population evolving by genetic drift, in which the frequency of the allele K is 0.8. What is the probability that at some point in the future allele K will drift to a frequency of 1.0? Express your answer as a number between 0 and 1.
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Answer

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Step 1:
I'll solve this population genetics problem step by step using the fixation probability formula.

Step 2:
: Understand the Concept of Fixation

In population genetics, fixation occurs when an allele reaches a frequency of 1.0 (100%) in a population. The probability of fixation depends on the current allele frequency.

Step 3:
: Identify the Initial Allele Frequency

- Initial frequency of allele K = $$p = 0.8
- Complementary allele frequency = 1 - p = 0.2

Step 4:
: Apply the Fixation Probability Formula

P(\text{fixation}) = p

Step 5:
: Calculate the Fixation Probability

P(\text{fixation}) = 0.8

Final Answer

Key Insights: - This result comes from the neutral theory of genetic drift - The probability of fixation is directly proportional to the current allele frequency - In this case, allele K has a high probability (80%) of eventually reaching fixation