Which process is primarily responsible for creating genetic diversity in a population?

Gene flow is the process that significantly contributes to genetic diversity within a population. It occurs when individuals from different populations interbreed, resulting in the transfer of genetic material between these groups. This mixing of genes can introduce new alleles into a population's gene pool, enhancing genetic variation.

As individuals migrate from one population to another, they bring their unique genetic traits, which can enrich the genetic makeup of the receiving population. This is particularly important in maintaining and enhancing the health and adaptability of a population, as greater genetic diversity can lead to increased resilience against diseases and environmental changes.

Other aspects, such as mutations, natural selection, and reproductive isolation, play roles in evolution and shaping genetic variation, but they operate in different ways. Mutations introduce new genetic variations but occur randomly. Natural selection acts on existing variations by favoring certain traits, while reproductive isolation can limit gene flow through barriers, which may ultimately lead to reduced genetic diversity rather than its enhancement.