Multiple Choice
According to the punctuated equilibria model, which of the following best describes the pattern of evolutionary change in species?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Natural Selection and Evolution
Multiple Choice
Of the scenarios below, which represents the occurrence of evolution at its smallest scale?
A
A change in allele frequency within a population over generations
B
The appearance of similar traits in unrelated species due to convergent evolution
C
The extinction of an entire species
D
The formation of a new genus
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of evolution at its smallest scale, which is microevolution. Microevolution refers to changes in allele frequencies within a population over generations.
Recognize that allele frequency refers to how common a particular allele is in a population. Alleles are different forms of a gene, and their frequencies can change due to mechanisms like mutation, natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow.
Analyze the given scenarios: (1) A change in allele frequency within a population over generations, (2) The appearance of similar traits in unrelated species due to convergent evolution, (3) The extinction of an entire species, and (4) The formation of a new genus.
Evaluate each scenario: (1) represents microevolution, as it directly involves changes in allele frequencies within a population. (2) represents convergent evolution, which is a macroevolutionary process. (3) represents extinction, which is a large-scale event. (4) represents speciation, which is also a macroevolutionary process.
Conclude that the correct scenario representing evolution at its smallest scale is 'A change in allele frequency within a population over generations,' as it aligns with the definition of microevolution.
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