Question

two species that are closely related became increasingly different through
a. divergent evolution.
b. disruptive selection.
c. convergent evolution.
d. directional selection.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Divergent evolution is when closely related species evolve to become more different over time (due to different environmental pressures). This matches the description.
• Option B: Disruptive selection is a type of natural selection (not the same as divergent evolution; it acts on a single population, not between related species becoming different).
• Option C: Convergent evolution is when unrelated species evolve similar traits (opposite of what's described here).
• Option D: Directional selection is a type of natural selection that shifts a population's trait in one direction (not about related species diverging).

Answer:

A. divergent evolution