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Multiple Choice
Which term best describes the sudden elimination of a species due to a catastrophic event?
A
Gradualism
B
Adaptive radiation
C
Mass extinction
D
Speciation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the key terms in the question: 'Gradualism,' 'Adaptive radiation,' 'Mass extinction,' and 'Speciation.' Each term represents a distinct biological concept.
Define 'Gradualism': This refers to the slow and steady accumulation of small genetic changes over long periods, leading to evolutionary changes. It does not involve sudden events.
Define 'Adaptive radiation': This is the process by which a single ancestral species rapidly diversifies into multiple new species, often in response to new ecological opportunities. It is not related to species elimination.
Define 'Mass extinction': This is the sudden and widespread elimination of a large number of species due to catastrophic events, such as asteroid impacts, volcanic eruptions, or rapid climate changes. This matches the description in the question.
Define 'Speciation': This is the process by which new species arise from existing ones, typically through mechanisms like geographic isolation or genetic divergence. It does not involve the elimination of species.