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Multiple Choice
Which of the following must be true for natural selection to occur in a population?
A
There must be variation in traits among individuals.
B
The environment must remain constant over time.
C
Individuals must acquire traits during their lifetime and pass them on.
D
All individuals must have identical genetic makeup.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is a process where individuals with traits that are better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those traits to the next generation.
Identify the key requirements for natural selection: For natural selection to occur, there must be variation in traits among individuals in a population. This variation is essential because it provides the raw material for selection to act upon.
Clarify the role of the environment: The environment does not need to remain constant over time for natural selection to occur. In fact, changing environments can drive the evolution of populations as different traits become advantageous.
Address the misconception about acquired traits: Traits acquired during an individual's lifetime (e.g., learned behaviors or physical changes due to injury) are not passed on genetically. Natural selection acts on heritable traits, which are encoded in an organism's DNA.
Explain genetic diversity: Natural selection requires genetic diversity within a population. If all individuals had identical genetic makeup, there would be no variation for selection to act upon, and evolution through natural selection would not occur.