Understanding Natural Selection Concepts

Which of the following is a condition required for natural selection to occur?

• Limited resources

• Overproduction of offspring

• Constant environment

• Absence of predators

What is the term used to describe the differences in traits among individuals of the same species?

• Genetic drift

• Inherited variation

• Natural selection

• Mutation

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Explain how overproduction of offspring can lead to natural selection.

• It ensures that all offspring survive to adulthood.

• It creates competition for resources, leading to survival of the fittest.

• It guarantees that all traits are passed on to the next generation.

• It reduces genetic variation within a population.

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Which scenario best illustrates the struggle to survive in a natural environment?

• A plant species that can grow in any soil type

• A predator that has no natural enemies

• A population of rabbits competing for limited food resources

• A bird species that migrates to avoid harsh winters

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A population of beetles has a variety of colors. Over time, birds prey more on the brightly colored beetles. What is the most likely outcome for the beetle population?

• The population will become more brightly colored.

• The population will become more dull-colored.

• The population will remain the same.

• The population will go extinct.

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Describe how inherited variation contributes to differential reproductive success.

• It allows all individuals to reproduce equally.

• It leads to some individuals having traits that are better suited to the environment.

• It ensures that all traits are passed on to the next generation.

• It reduces the chances of survival for all individuals.

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Which of the following best describes differential reproductive success?

• All individuals in a population reproduce at the same rate.

• Some individuals reproduce more successfully than others due to advantageous traits.

• Reproduction occurs randomly without any influence from traits.

• Only the largest individuals in a population reproduce.

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How does the struggle to survive influence natural selection?

• It decreases the genetic diversity of a population.

• It increases the likelihood of all individuals surviving.

• It favors individuals with traits that enhance survival and reproduction.

• It ensures that only the strongest individuals reproduce.

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Consider a population of fish where some have a genetic mutation that allows them to swim faster. How might this trait affect the population over time?

• The mutation will disappear as it provides no advantage.

• Faster swimming fish may survive predators better, leading to more offspring with the trait.

• All fish will eventually develop the mutation.

• The mutation will cause the population to decrease in size.

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What role does overproduction of offspring play in natural selection?

• It ensures that all offspring survive to adulthood.

• It leads to competition for resources, which can result in differential survival.

• It reduces the genetic variation within a population.

• It guarantees that all traits are passed on to the next generation.