What aspect of genetics studies how traits are passed from one generation to the next?

Heritability is the correct choice because it refers specifically to the proportion of observed variation in a particular trait among individuals in a population that can be attributed to genetic factors. In other words, it quantifies how much of the variation in a trait, such as height, eye color, or susceptibility to certain diseases, is inherited through genes passed down from parents to offspring. This concept is fundamental in the field of genetics, as it helps in understanding the extent to which traits can be transmitted across generations.

Genetic mutations, while important in the overall study of genetics, focus more on changes or alterations in the DNA sequence that may affect gene function, rather than the inheritance patterns of traits. Genetic engineering involves deliberately altering the genetic structure of an organism, but it does not specifically address the natural transmission of traits. Population genetics studies the genetic composition of populations and how genetic factors change over time due to various evolutionary processes, but it also does not specifically focus on trait inheritance as directly as heritability does.