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D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction

Mutation and sexual reproduction generate genetic variation, providing the raw material on which natural selection can act in evolving populations.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
D4.1.2
Level
HL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing4%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceNovember 2023
Most common paperPaper2
Typical marks2–7

Common command terms

  • Explain
  • Identify
  • Outline

Recent exam appearances

November 2023Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ28(a)[ 7 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
May 2021Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ17(b)[ 7 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
November 2020Paper1 ["HL"] · TZ017[ 1 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
May 2017Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ25(b)(ii)[ 3 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
November 2016Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ04(a)[ 2 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
Practice this objective

Coverage 2016–2023 · Updated 16 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

  • Mutation can create new alleles.
  • Sexual reproduction reshuffles alleles into new combinations.
  • Selection acts on variation that already exists in a population.
ConceptIB Biology HL