Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a necessary condition for evolution by natural selection to occur in a population?
A
Genetic variation among individuals
B
No differential survival or reproduction
C
All individuals have identical genotypes
D
The environment remains completely unchanged
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of evolution by natural selection: Natural selection is a mechanism of evolution where individuals with traits that provide a survival or reproductive advantage are more likely to pass those traits to the next generation.
Identify the necessary conditions for natural selection: For natural selection to occur, there must be genetic variation among individuals in a population. This variation provides the raw material for selection to act upon.
Analyze the options provided: Genetic variation among individuals is essential because it allows some individuals to have traits that are better suited to the environment, leading to differential survival or reproduction.
Evaluate why the other options are incorrect: If all individuals have identical genotypes, there would be no variation for selection to act upon. Similarly, if there is no differential survival or reproduction, natural selection cannot occur. Lastly, while the environment can influence selection, it does not need to remain unchanged for evolution to happen.
Conclude that genetic variation among individuals is the necessary condition for evolution by natural selection to occur, as it enables the process of differential survival and reproduction based on advantageous traits.