Question

which of the following is true of extinctions? choose 1 answer: a extinctions are permanent and irreversible. b an extinction can be overcome if some individuals have adaptations allowing them to survive changes in the environment. c if a population goes extinct, its collection of genes can continue to play a part in its species evolution.

Explanation:

• Option A: Extinction means the complete disappearance of a species, so once a species goes extinct, it is permanent and irreversible as there are no individuals left to reproduce or contribute to the gene pool.
• Option B: If a species is extinct, there are no individuals left, so adaptations of individuals can't overcome extinction (that would be natural selection within a surviving population, not related to extinction).
• Option C: If a population goes extinct, all its individuals (and their genes) are gone, so those genes can't continue to play a part in the species' evolution.

Answer:

A. Extinctions are permanent and irreversible.