Question

According to the punctuated equilibrium model, which two triggers bring about rapid evolutionary change?

a) Genetic drift and migration
b) Mutation and natural selection
c) Environmental stability and adaptation
d) Geographic isolation and reproductive isolation

Answer 1

Rapid evolutionary change in the punctuated equilibrium model is triggered by geographic and reproductive isolation, where environment-induced rapid changes lead to new species formation.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to the punctuated equilibrium model, the two triggers that bring about rapid evolutionary change are geographic isolation and reproductive isolation. Punctuated equilibrium suggests that species remain stable for long periods of time but undergo rapid changes during brief periods of environmental stress or change.

This can happen when a population becomes geographically isolated from the rest, leading to reproductive isolation. As the population adapts to its new environment, these changes can be fast and significant, potentially leading to the formation of a new species.