Question

2 multiple choice 1 point
how does a useful genetic trait appear in a population?
when all of the organisms die off
a variation that is caused by a mutation and inherited
when a population decides to change its traits
when different species mate and produce fertile offspring
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Explanation:

A useful genetic trait appears in a population through a mutation - caused variation that is inherited. Mutations are random changes in the DNA. If a mutation results in a useful trait, and it is passed on (inherited) to the next generation, over time, this trait can become more common in the population.

• When all organisms die off, there is no population left to have the trait.
• Populations don't "decide" to change traits. Traits are determined by genetics.
• Different species usually cannot mate and produce fertile offspring (due to reproductive isolation). Even if they could, it's not the main way a useful genetic trait appears in a population.

Answer:

a variation that is caused by a mutation and inherited