DP Biology (first assessment 2025)

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Question SPM.2.SL.TZ0.c

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Date May Specimen-2023 Marks available [Maximum mark: 7] Reference code SPM.2.SL.TZ0.c
Level SL Paper 2 Time zone TZ0
Command term Explain Question number c Adapted from N/A
c.
[Maximum mark: 7]
SPM.2.SL.TZ0.c

Explain the role of mutations in evolution.

[7]

Markscheme
  1.  new phenotypes/traits may result from mutations;
  2.  mutations increase variation/differences between individuals in a population/species;
  3.  individuals with new phenotype/trait may have more chances of survival;
  4.  (more chances of survival) in a changing environment / presence of selection pressures;
  5.  (selection pressure can be) intraspecific competition/abiotic factor;
  6.  natural selection occurs;
  7.  individuals with (advantageous) mutation have longer life spans/live longer;
  8.  (so) more chances of reproduction;
  9.  mutated gene passed on to new generations;
  10.  allele frequencies change in the population over time;
  11.  evolution is a consequence of natural selection;

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