The 5 conditions of Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
No mutationsA gene pool is altered if mutations occur, if these mutations result in fit traits, this could result in evolution. Thus, evolution cannot occur.
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Random MatingIf individuals mate preferentially (possibly inbreed) there can be no random assortment of gametes which results in no change in the allelic frequencies.
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No Natural SelectionNatural selection encourages certain alleles and genes to be more prominent: this is not applicable for Hardy-Weinberg.
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Extremely large populationThe smaller the population, the more likely that genetic drift will occur and this will result in a change in the allele frequencies.
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No gene flowThe movement of individuals in and out of populations can change the allele frequencies of the populations. Thus, there can be no immigration or emigration from the community.
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Helpful tip
An easy way to remember the five conditions for Hardy-Weinberg is to remember the "Five Fingers of Evolution", found under the general microevolution tab. The Five Fingers of Evolution are the conditions that are not allowed for Hardy-Weinberg to be applicable.