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Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Heredity and Variation?

Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Heredity and Variation?

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Heredity and variation are two concepts related to the transmission and differences in genetic traits among individuals. Here are the key differences between them:

Heredity:

  • Refers to the passing of genetic traits from parents to offspring, either through sexual or asexual reproduction.
  • Involves the transmission of genetic information, including DNA, which contains instructions for the production of proteins and other molecules.
  • Heredity is essential for the continuity of species and the inheritance of specific characteristics, such as eye color or height.

Variation:

  • Refers to the differences in inherited characteristics among individuals within a species.
  • Results from subtle differences in DNA, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which represent a difference in a single DNA base (A, C, G, or T) in a person's DNA.
  • Variation leads to the presence of different forms or alleles of genes, which can result in diverse traits, such as eye color, skin tone, or face shape.
  • Genetic variation is crucial for evolution, as it enables natural selection and the adaptation of species to their environment.

In summary, heredity is the process through which genetic traits are passed from one generation to the next, while variation refers to the differences in these inherited traits among individuals within a species. Both concepts are essential for understanding the inheritance of characteristics and the evolution of species.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Heredity and Variation?
  • Comparative Table: Heredity vs Variation

    • Comparative Table: Heredity vs Variation

    Here is a table that highlights the differences between heredity and variation:

    Feature Heredity Variation
    Definition Heredity refers to the inheritance of traits from one generation to the next. Variation refers to the differences in genes between individuals or groups of individuals.
    Responsibility Heredity is responsible for the transmission of genetic information from parents to offspring. Variation is responsible for the diversity within a population.
    Examples Eye color, hair color, and height are examples of traits that can be inherited from parents to offspring. Different colors of eyes, various hair colors, and diverse heights are examples of variations within a population.
    Impact on Evolution Heredity provides the foundation for evolution by allowing the transmission of genetic information over generations. Variation contributes to the genetic diversity within a population, which can lead to the development of new traits and the evolution of species.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.