Final answer:
Gradualism and punctuated equilibrium are two models of evolution. Darwin supported gradualism, which suggests that evolution occurs gradually over time. On the other hand, Lamarck proposed punctuated equilibrium, where species remain unchanged for long periods and undergo rapid changes when conditions change.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the study of evolution, there are two contrasting models: gradualism and punctuated equilibrium. Gradualism, supported by Darwin, suggests that evolution occurs gradually over long periods of time. On the other hand, punctuated equilibrium, proposed by Lamarck, suggests that species remain relatively unchanged for long periods of time and undergo rapid changes when environmental conditions change. The fossil record provides stronger support for punctuated equilibrium, showing long periods of stasis followed by bursts of rapid change.