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Multiple Choice
The smallest unit that can evolve is a(n) __________.
A
species
B
genotype
C
individual
D
morph
E
population
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of evolution: Evolution refers to the change in the genetic composition of a population over successive generations.
Recognize that evolution occurs at the population level: Individual organisms do not evolve; rather, it is the population as a whole that undergoes genetic changes over time.
Differentiate between the terms: A species is a group of organisms that can interbreed, a genotype is the genetic makeup of an individual, an individual is a single organism, and a morph is a variation within a species.
Identify the correct unit of evolution: Since evolution involves changes in allele frequencies within a population, the smallest unit that can evolve is the population itself.
Conclude that the correct answer is 'population': This is because evolution is a process that affects the genetic makeup of populations, not individual organisms.