Which term best describes the process in which species can no longer interact because they are separated by physical boundaries?

• A. Genetic drift
• B. Convergent evolution
• C. Sympatric speciation
• D. Allopatric speciation

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of allopatric speciation: It is a process of speciation that occurs when populations of the same species are geographically separated, preventing gene flow between them.
2. Recognize the role of physical boundaries: Physical barriers such as mountains, rivers, or oceans can isolate populations, leading to genetic divergence over time due to mutation, natural selection, and genetic drift.
3. Differentiate allopatric speciation from other terms: Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies, convergent evolution describes unrelated species evolving similar traits, and sympatric speciation occurs without physical separation.
4. Identify the key concept in the question: The question emphasizes species being separated by physical boundaries, which directly aligns with the definition of allopatric speciation.
5. Conclude that the correct term describing this process is allopatric speciation, as it specifically involves geographic isolation leading to the inability of species to interact and reproduce.