In a relatively large but finite and closed population of sexually rep...
Possible causes for change in frequency of the PP genotype:
1. Non-random mating: Non-random mating refers to the preferential mating between individuals with certain genotypes. In this scenario, if there was non-random mating occurring, it would mean that individuals with the PP genotype were more likely to mate with each other. However, the question does not provide any information about non-random mating, so it cannot be considered as the most likely cause.
2. Random genetic drift: Random genetic drift refers to the random fluctuation of allele frequencies in a population due to chance events. This can occur in small populations where genetic variation is limited. In this scenario, the population is described as "relatively large," which suggests that random genetic drift may not be the most likely cause, as it is more commonly observed in small populations.
3. Selection: Selection refers to the process by which certain individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to changes in allele frequencies over time. In this scenario, the frequency of the PP genotype increases from 0.40 to 0.50, while the frequency of the Pp genotype remains constant. This suggests that individuals with the PP genotype have a selective advantage, and therefore, selection is the most likely cause for the change in frequency.
4. Combination of non-random mating and random genetic drift: While it is possible that a combination of non-random mating and random genetic drift could contribute to changes in allele frequencies, the information provided in the question does not support this possibility. Without any information about non-random mating or small population size, it is unlikely that the combination of these two factors is the most likely cause.
Therefore, based on the information provided, the most likely cause for the change in frequency of the PP genotype is selection.