Which of the following statements best expresses the concept of punctuated equilibrium? a) Small variations gradually accumulate in evolving lineages over periods of millions of years. b) Random mating ensures that the proportions of genotypes in a population remain unchanged from generation to generation. c) Stability is achieved when selection favors the heterozygote, while both types of homozygotes are at a relative disadvantage. d) Evolutionary changes consist of rapid bursts of speciation alternating with long periods in which species remain essentially unmodified. e) Under competition for identical resources, one of the two competing species will be eliminated or excluded.
Which of the following statements best expresses the concept of punctuated equilibrium?
a) Small variations gradually accumulate in evolving lineages over periods of millions of years.
b) Random mating ensures that the proportions of genotypes in a population remain unchanged from generation to generation.
c) Stability is achieved when selection favors the heterozygote, while both types of homozygotes are at a relative disadvantage.
d) Evolutionary changes consist of rapid bursts of speciation alternating with long periods in which species remain essentially unmodified.
e) Under competition for identical resources, one of the two competing species will be eliminated or excluded.
Answered
Answer: d) Evolutionary changes consist of rapid bursts of speciation alternating with long periods in which species remain essentially unmodified.
Explanation: This statement defines punctuated equilibrium, where species experience long periods of stasis interrupted by brief episodes of rapid evolution.
BNO Team