Question

which is most likely to happen to a population that becomes anatomically isolated from the rest of its species? the population will breed with a different species nearby. the entire species will become extinct. the entire species will continue to have viable offspring together. the population will become a separate species over time.

Explanation:

• Option 1: A population isolated anatomically won't easily breed with a different species (needs compatible anatomy/behavior for breeding), so this is incorrect.
• Option 2: Anatomical isolation of one population doesn't mean the entire species goes extinct. The rest of the species can still survive, so this is wrong.
• Option 3: If a population is anatomically isolated, over time, genetic differences will accumulate (due to different environmental pressures, mutations, etc.). They won't be able to produce viable offspring with the original species (reproductive isolation develops), so this is incorrect.
• Option 4: When a population is anatomically isolated, it experiences different selection pressures. Over generations, genetic changes accumulate. Eventually, reproductive isolation (can't interbreed with the original species) develops, and the population becomes a separate species (speciation via allopatric - type isolation, here anatomical isolation leading to genetic divergence).

Answer:

The population will become a separate species over time.