How does genetic drift affect the genetic diversity of a population?

Genetic drift is a random process that can lead to significant changes in a population's genetic makeup over time, particularly in small populations. It can result in the loss of genetic diversity as certain alleles may become fixed while others are lost entirely, reducing the overall variability within the population. This reduction in genetic diversity can make populations more vulnerable to environmental changes and diseases. Ultimately, genetic drift can impact a population's ability to adapt and survive in changing conditions.