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Multiple Choice
Which of the following processes could lead to different populations of the same species evolving distinct traits when living in different environments?
A
Random mating within a single population
B
Identical environmental conditions across all habitats
C
Natural selection acting on environmental differences
D
Uniform gene flow between all populations
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is the process by which individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those advantageous traits to the next generation.
Recognize the role of environmental differences: Different environments exert different selective pressures, favoring distinct traits in populations living in those environments.
Analyze why random mating within a single population does not lead to distinct traits: Random mating ensures genetic mixing within a population, but it does not create distinct traits unless selective pressures are present.
Evaluate why identical environmental conditions across habitats do not lead to distinct traits: If all populations experience the same environmental conditions, the selective pressures are uniform, and there is no divergence in traits.
Understand why uniform gene flow between populations prevents divergence: Gene flow homogenizes genetic differences between populations, reducing the likelihood of distinct traits evolving in separate populations.