Question

if a changing environment causes a single species to become separated into two distinct groups that can no longer mix, what is the most likely long - term outcome? speciation, because the species is adapting to a new environment. extinction, because its gene pool has been lost. the species would stop being part of the evolutionary process. the species would remain exactly the same over time.

Explanation:

When a single species is separated into two non - mixing groups due to environmental change, over time, each group will adapt to its specific environment. This can lead to genetic divergence and eventually speciation, where the two groups become distinct species. Extinction is unlikely just because of separation as long as the groups can still survive and reproduce. A species cannot stop being part of the evolutionary process as long as there are environmental pressures, and remaining exactly the same over time is not possible in changing environments.

Answer:

The first option: Speciation, because the species is adapting to a new environment.