Evolution can best be defined as:
Group of answer choices
the appearance of a new species.
a change in allele frequencies in a breeding population over time.
changes in the DNA of an individual over his or her lifetime.
a process that occurs only over extremely long periods of time.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
“A change in allele frequencies in a breeding population over time.”
Explanation:
Evolution is the process by which populations of organisms change over generations due to variations in genetic traits. The most widely accepted scientific definition of evolution describes it as a change in allele frequencies in a population over time. Alleles are different versions of a gene, and their frequencies within a population’s gene pool shift due to mechanisms such as natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and mutation.
One of the key drivers of evolution is natural selection, where individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing their genes to the next generation. Over many generations, beneficial traits become more common in the population. Mutation introduces new genetic variations, while gene flow (migration) and genetic drift (random changes in allele frequency) also contribute to evolutionary change.
The incorrect answers:
- “The appearance of a new species” refers to speciation, which is a result of evolution but does not define the process itself.
- “Changes in the DNA of an individual over his or her lifetime” confuses evolution with somatic mutations, which do not pass to offspring and therefore do not contribute to evolutionary change.
- “A process that occurs only over extremely long periods of time” is misleading because evolution can sometimes occur rapidly, especially in response to strong selective pressures.
Thus, the most accurate definition of evolution is a change in allele frequencies in a breeding population over time.
I’ve provided an artistic representation of evolution, showing the gradual transformation of organisms over time. Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!
