Which is the best statement of the principle of natural selection?
A) Over time, the environment naturally selects some traits over others.
B) Genetic variations become more common over time if they affect traits that are adaptive in a particular environment.
C) A species constantly improves as parents pass along their best traits to their offspring.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement "Genetic variations become more common over time if they affect traits that are adaptive in a particular environment" captures the essence of the principle of natural selection. This principle posits that organisms that possess advantageous traits (due to genetic variation) are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on those beneficial traits to their offspring. Over time, these advantageous traits become more common in the population, leading to evolutionary change. Option A is partially correct, but it suggests that the environment actively selects traits rather than merely influencing which traits are more advantageous. Option C is incorrect because natural selection does not inevitably lead to the constant improvement of a species, but instead favours traits that are adaptive in a given environment, regardless of whether they result in improved function or complexity.

Which Is the Best Statement of the Principle of Natural