Variation, inheritance, high rate of population growth, differential survival and reproduction
Verified step by step guidance
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Step 1: Begin by understanding that Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection is based on four key components. These components explain how traits in populations change over time due to environmental pressures and reproductive success.
Step 2: The first component is 'Variation.' This refers to the differences in traits among individuals within a population. These variations arise due to genetic differences and are essential for natural selection to act upon.
Step 3: The second component is 'Inheritance.' Traits must be heritable, meaning they can be passed from parents to offspring. This ensures that advantageous traits can be transmitted to future generations.
Step 4: The third component is 'High rate of population growth.' Populations tend to produce more offspring than the environment can support, leading to competition for limited resources.
Step 5: The fourth component is 'Differential survival and reproduction.' Individuals with traits that provide a survival or reproductive advantage are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those advantageous traits to their offspring.