Question

which of the following best describes how natural selection occurs in a population? choose 1 answer: a organisms with more genetic variation survive longer than individuals with less genetic variation. b organisms that inherit beneficial traits are more likely to survive and reproduce than organisms without those traits. c organisms that acquire beneficial traits during their lifetime produce more offspring than individuals without those traits.

Explanation:

• Option A: Natural selection isn't about the amount of genetic variation directly determining survival length. Genetic variation provides the raw material, but survival depends on beneficial traits, not just variation quantity.
• Option B: Natural selection works as organisms with inherited beneficial traits (adaptations) have a higher fitness, meaning they are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits. This matches the concept of natural selection.
• Option C: Acquired traits during an organism's lifetime (like muscle building from exercise) are not inherited, so they can't be passed on to offspring. Natural selection acts on heritable traits, so this is incorrect.

Answer:

B. Organisms that inherit beneficial traits are more likely to survive and reproduce than organisms without those traits.