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Multiple Choice
Which of the following would best demonstrate that a given population has evolved?
A
A temporary migration of individuals into the population.
B
A measurable change in allele frequencies within the population over several generations.
C
An increase in the population size due to abundant food resources.
D
A change in the weather patterns affecting the population's habitat.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of evolution in a population. Evolution is defined as a change in the genetic composition of a population over time, specifically a measurable change in allele frequencies across generations.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided. The key to identifying evolution is to focus on genetic changes, not temporary or environmental factors.
Step 3: Evaluate the first option, 'A temporary migration of individuals into the population.' Migration may introduce new alleles temporarily, but it does not necessarily indicate a measurable change in allele frequencies over generations.
Step 4: Evaluate the second option, 'A measurable change in allele frequencies within the population over several generations.' This directly aligns with the definition of evolution, as it demonstrates genetic change over time.
Step 5: Evaluate the remaining options. 'An increase in population size due to abundant food resources' and 'A change in the weather patterns affecting the population's habitat' are environmental or demographic changes, not genetic changes. These do not demonstrate evolution in the population.