Question

all of these are examples of random evolutionary processes except
a.
an earthquake divides a single elk species into two populations, forcing
them to no longer interbreed.

b.
a mutation in a flower plant results in a new variety.

c.
an especially long winter causes a group of migrating birds to shift their
home range.

d.
a mutation results in a population of trees that spread their seeds more
widely than their peers, causing their population to grow.

Explanation:

Random evolutionary processes are driven by chance, not trait advantage. Options A (geographic isolation via random earthquake), B (random mutation), and C (random extreme winter) are chance events. Option D describes a mutation that gives a reproductive advantage, leading to natural selection—a non-random evolutionary process where beneficial traits are favored.

Answer:

D. a mutation results in a population of trees that spread their seeds more widely than their peers, causing their population to grow.