Gene flow refers to the movement of which between populations?

• A. Movement of genes via mutation
• B. Movement of individuals or gametes
• C. Movement of chromosomes during mitosis
• D. Movement of environmental factors

Answer: (B)

Gene flow is the movement of genetic material between populations, usually via migration of individuals or the gametes they produce. When a member of one population moves into another, their alleles become part of the new population’s gene pool and can alter allele frequencies, helping to homogenize populations over time. Pollen or seeds moving from one population to another also transfers genetic material between populations. Mutation, on the other hand, creates new alleles within a population rather than moving existing ones between populations. Movement of chromosomes during cell division (mitosis) stays within the organism and its tissues, not between populations, and environmental factors don’t transfer genes themselves.