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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes how the breakup of Pangaea affected evolution?
A
It caused all species to become extinct due to drastic climate changes.
B
It led to geographic isolation, promoting speciation by preventing gene flow between populations.
C
It had no significant impact on the evolutionary processes of organisms.
D
It resulted in a decrease in biodiversity by merging all habitats into one.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of Pangaea: Pangaea was a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras. Its breakup led to the formation of separate continents, which had significant effects on the environment and evolutionary processes.
Recognize the role of geographic isolation in evolution: When populations of organisms are separated by physical barriers, such as oceans or mountain ranges, gene flow between populations is restricted. This isolation can lead to speciation, where new species evolve due to differences in selective pressures and genetic drift.
Analyze the impact of the breakup of Pangaea: The separation of landmasses created diverse environments and isolated populations of organisms. This promoted speciation by exposing populations to different climates, resources, and ecological niches.
Evaluate the incorrect options: The breakup of Pangaea did not cause all species to become extinct, nor did it merge all habitats into one. Instead, it increased biodiversity by creating new habitats and opportunities for speciation.
Conclude that the correct description is: The breakup of Pangaea led to geographic isolation, promoting speciation by preventing gene flow between populations, which is a key driver of evolutionary processes.