Final answer:
Neanderthals experienced a decline in their population and ultimately went extinct around 35,000 to 50,000 years ago, possibly due to competition with modern humans. One theory suggests that modern humans had better survival strategies and tool-making abilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
As modern humans spread out to populate different parts of the globe, Neanderthals experienced a decline in their population and ultimately went extinct around 35,000 to 50,000 years ago. There are several theories as to what caused their extinction, including violent competition, resource competition, inability to adapt to a changing climate, and the spread of disease. One theory suggests that modern humans had better survival strategies, tool-making abilities, and lower mortality rates, which allowed them to outcompete the Neanderthals.