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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
SL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing6%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceMay 2025
Most common paperPaper2
Typical marks1–7

Common command terms

  • Explain
  • Identify
  • Outline

Recent exam appearances

May 2025Paper1A ["SL"] · TZ229[ 1 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
May 2025Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ12(a)[ 1 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
May 2024Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ17(c)[ 7 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
November 2020Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ04(b)(ii)[ 4 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
November 2017Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ021[ 1 ]D4.1.2—Roles of mutation and sexual reproduction
Practice this objective

Coverage 2010–2025 · 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 SL