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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is accurate if we view evolution both as a pattern and a process?
A
Evolution as a pattern only considers genetic mutations, while evolution as a process ignores environmental influences.
B
Evolution as a process describes the static nature of species, while evolution as a pattern explains why species do not change.
C
Evolution as a pattern refers to the observable changes in organisms over time, while evolution as a process describes the mechanisms, such as natural selection, that drive these changes.
D
Evolution as a pattern and as a process both refer exclusively to the fossil record.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the distinction between evolution as a pattern and evolution as a process. Evolution as a pattern refers to the observable changes in organisms over time, such as changes in physical traits, genetic sequences, or species diversity. These changes can be seen in the fossil record, comparative anatomy, and molecular biology.
Recognize that evolution as a process describes the mechanisms driving these changes. These mechanisms include natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and mutation, which explain how and why organisms evolve over time.
Evaluate the statements provided in the problem. For example, the statement 'Evolution as a pattern only considers genetic mutations, while evolution as a process ignores environmental influences' is incorrect because both genetic mutations and environmental influences are integral to the process of evolution.
Analyze the statement 'Evolution as a process describes the static nature of species, while evolution as a pattern explains why species do not change.' This is also incorrect because evolution inherently involves change, not stasis.
Confirm that the correct answer is: 'Evolution as a pattern refers to the observable changes in organisms over time, while evolution as a process describes the mechanisms, such as natural selection, that drive these changes.' This aligns with the scientific understanding of evolution as both a pattern and a process.