Question

1. an adaptation is best described as _____.

a. a gradual temperature change in any given environment
b. a physical structure or behavior that makes an organism more suited to its environment
c. a change in the number of different species found in one particular area
d. a change in the environment that makes it difficult for organisms to survive

a
b
c
d

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: A gradual temperature change is not an adaptation. Adaptations are about organisms, not environmental temperature changes. Eliminate A.
• Option B: By definition, an adaptation is a physical structure (like a bird's beak) or behavior (like a bear hibernating) that helps an organism be more suited to its environment. This matches the concept of adaptation.
• Option C: A change in the number of species in an area refers to species diversity changes, not adaptations of individual organisms. Eliminate C.
• Option D: A change in the environment that makes survival difficult is a stressor or environmental change, not an adaptation (which is a trait of the organism). Eliminate D.

Answer:

B. a physical structure or behavior that makes an organism more suited to its environment