Final answer:
Natural selection is the phenomenon illustrated by the scenario described. It is the process by which individuals with favorable genetic traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their genes to the next generation. In this case, hominids with larger cranial capacity had an advantage, as it allowed for increased brain size, potentially leading to improved cognitive abilities and survival.
Step-by-step explanation:
Natural selection is the phenomenon illustrated by the scenario described. It is the process by which individuals with favorable genetic traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their genes to the next generation. In this case, hominids with larger cranial capacity had an advantage, as it allowed for increased brain size, potentially leading to improved cognitive abilities and survival. Over time, the population would have seen an increase in individuals with larger cranial capacity due to the selective pressure of natural selection.