Question

Explain why natural selection does not result in evolution of a trait because a population "needed it", but can only operate on preexisting variation in the population?

A) Natural selection can respond to specific needs expressed by a population.

B) Evolution depends on random chance, not on population needs.

C) Natural selection operates on genetic variation that exists in a population and favors traits that confer a reproductive advantage.

D) Populations are static, and natural selection does not drive any changes in traits.

Answer 1

Natural selection does not evolve traits due to population 'needs' but selects for advantageous genetic variations that already exist in the population.

Step-by-step explanation:

Natural selection does not produce traits in a population because the population 'needs' them. Instead, evolution occurs when there is already genetic variation within a population. Traits that provide a reproductive advantage are selected for, which means those traits become more common over generations. The concept of 'need' implies intention or purpose, which does not apply to the natural selection process.

For natural selection to work, there must be genetic differences among individuals that affect their survival and reproduction. These differences must have a genetic basis, which can be due to mutations, gene flow, or existing diversity in the gene pool. Natural selection can only act on these existing variations. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that natural selection evolves a trait because a population 'needs' it.