Understanding Speciation and Extinction

What is the process by which new species are generated called?

• Extinction

• Speciation

• Evolution

• Natural Selection

Which of the following is considered the most important cause of speciation by biologists?

• Genetic mutation

• Geographic separation

• Climate change

• Predation

Explain how geographic isolation can lead to the formation of new species.

• Geographic isolation prevents populations from interbreeding, leading to genetic divergence over time.

• Geographic isolation increases the mutation rate, creating new species.

• Geographic isolation causes immediate extinction of species, allowing new ones to form.

• Geographic isolation forces species to adapt to new environments, creating new species.

What is the term used to describe the disappearance of a species from Earth?

• Speciation

• Extinction

• Evolution

• Adaptation

Describe the difference between background extinction rate and mass extinction.

• Background extinction rate refers to the gradual extinction of species, while mass extinction refers to the rapid extinction of a large number of species.

• Background extinction rate is caused by human activities, while mass extinction is caused by natural events.

• Background extinction rate occurs only in aquatic environments, while mass extinction occurs on land.

• Background extinction rate is a recent phenomenon, while mass extinction has always occurred.