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Multiple Choice
Reproductive isolation is necessary for __________ to occur.
A
gene flow
B
natural selection
C
speciation
D
genetic drift
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of reproductive isolation. Reproductive isolation occurs when populations of organisms are unable to interbreed and produce fertile offspring due to physical, behavioral, temporal, or genetic barriers.
Step 2: Recognize that reproductive isolation prevents gene flow between populations. Gene flow is the transfer of genetic material between populations, and its absence allows populations to evolve independently.
Step 3: Connect reproductive isolation to speciation. Speciation is the process by which new species arise, and it typically requires reproductive isolation to ensure that genetic differences accumulate over time.
Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options. Gene flow contradicts reproductive isolation, natural selection can occur without reproductive isolation, and genetic drift is a random process that does not necessarily require reproductive isolation.
Step 5: Conclude that reproductive isolation is necessary for speciation to occur, as it allows populations to diverge genetically and form distinct species.