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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes a key similarity and a key difference between natural selection and artificial selection?
A
Both processes result in changes in populations over time, but natural selection is driven by environmental pressures while artificial selection is driven by human choice.
B
Natural selection and artificial selection both occur without any influence from humans or the environment.
C
Artificial selection leads to adaptation to the environment, while natural selection is used to produce desired traits in crops and animals.
D
Both processes are entirely random and do not lead to adaptation.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definitions of natural selection and artificial selection: Natural selection is the process by which organisms with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, driven by environmental pressures. Artificial selection, on the other hand, is the intentional breeding of organisms by humans to produce desired traits.
Identify the key similarity: Both natural selection and artificial selection result in changes in populations over time. This is because both processes involve the selection of certain traits that become more common in subsequent generations.
Identify the key difference: Natural selection is driven by environmental pressures, meaning the environment determines which traits are advantageous for survival and reproduction. Artificial selection is driven by human choice, where humans intentionally select traits they find desirable in crops, animals, or other organisms.
Evaluate the incorrect options: The statement 'Natural selection and artificial selection both occur without any influence from humans or the environment' is incorrect because natural selection is influenced by environmental pressures, and artificial selection is influenced by human intervention. The statement 'Artificial selection leads to adaptation to the environment, while natural selection is used to produce desired traits in crops and animals' reverses the roles of the two processes. The statement 'Both processes are entirely random and do not lead to adaptation' is incorrect because both processes involve non-random selection of traits.
Conclude with the correct answer: The correct answer is 'Both processes result in changes in populations over time, but natural selection is driven by environmental pressures while artificial selection is driven by human choice.' This accurately captures the key similarity and difference between the two processes.