How is natural selection related to sexual reproduction as opposed to asexual reproduction?

Question

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Natural selection operates on genetic variation within a population. Sexual reproduction leads to genetic diversity through the combination of genetic material from two individuals, resulting in many new gene combinations. This genetic variation provides a greater opportunity for some individuals to be better adapted to their environment and therefore more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to differential reproduction and the evolution of a population over time. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, results in genetically identical offspring, which limits the potential for genetic variation and the ability of natural selection to act.

How Is Natural Selection Related to Sexual Reproduction as Opposed