Genetic drift is a process that causes random changes in the frequency of genes within a population. This can happen due to chance events, such as natural disasters or random mating, which may lead to certain traits becoming more or less common over time. Unlike natural selection, which favors traits that improve survival, genetic drift can result in the loss of genetic diversity. In small populations, genetic drift can have a more significant impact because random events can drastically change the gene pool. For example, if a few individuals with a specific trait survive a flood, their genes may dominate future generations, even if those traits are not advantageous.