What is Variation? Variation is the diversity among a set of objects Genetic variation is then differences in inherited traits (genetics) that exist among the members of a species

Observing Variation Tall vs Short people Curly vs straight hair Bent vs straight thumb Attached vs separate earlobes Pointed vs smooth hairline Rolling your tongue

Heritable vs Non-Heritable Characteristics Heritable Characteristics: are passed on from generation to generation (ex) Eye Colour Non-Heritable Characteristics: are acquired from the environment (ex) a tan

Discrete vs Continuous Variation Discrete Variation: differences in characters that have a definite form (ex) being albino You are either albino or not Continuous Variation: differences in characteristics that have a range of forms (ex) human height which is a range

Try This…. Close your eyes and clasp your hands Which thumb is on top?? Is this discrete or continuous variation?

Environment Variation can result from interactions between individuals and the environment (ex) If you had 2 identical plants and you put one in the sun and one in a dark closet. One will be green and bushy The other will be yellow and wilted