The Operation of Natural Selection Depends Upon the Fact That

Question

The operation of natural selection depends upon the fact that ____.  
A) the strong always survive, whereas the weak always die
B) some individuals have a better chance to produce more offspring
C) mutations are always harmful
D) acquired characteristics are inherited
E) reproduction of all members of a species follows the same path

Accepted Answer

Natural selection works by favoring individuals that possess traits that give them a better chance to survive and reproduce in a specific environment. These traits are then passed to the offspring, increasing their chances of survival and reproduction. This process is not based on strength alone, nor does it involve the inheritance of acquired characteristics. Mutations can have either harmful, beneficial, or neutral effects on an organism's fitness, and the reproduction of members of a species can vary depending on a range of factors such as age, health, and availability of mates.