Which of the following best describes the relationship between mutations, adaptations, natural selection, and extinction?

• A. Natural selection creates mutations, which always result in extinction unless they are adaptations.
• B. Mutations introduce genetic variation, some of which may lead to adaptations that increase an organism's fitness; natural selection favors these adaptations, while failure to adapt can result in extinction.
• C. Adaptations cause mutations, which are then eliminated by natural selection to prevent extinction.
• D. Extinction leads to mutations, which are then selected for by natural selection to produce adaptations.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key terms: Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence that introduce genetic variation. Adaptations are traits that improve an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment. Natural selection is the process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce. Extinction occurs when a species fails to adapt to environmental changes and dies out.
2. Analyze the relationship between these terms: Mutations are the source of genetic variation. Some mutations may result in traits that are beneficial (adaptations), while others may be neutral or harmful.
3. Recognize the role of natural selection: Natural selection acts on the genetic variation introduced by mutations. It favors adaptations that increase an organism's fitness (ability to survive and reproduce) in a given environment.
4. Understand the connection to extinction: If a species cannot adapt to environmental changes (due to lack of beneficial mutations or other factors), it may face extinction. Extinction is the result of an inability to survive and reproduce in a changing environment.
5. Evaluate the provided options: The correct answer is the one that accurately describes the relationship: 'Mutations introduce genetic variation, some of which may lead to adaptations that increase an organism's fitness; natural selection favors these adaptations, while failure to adapt can result in extinction.' This explanation aligns with the principles of evolutionary biology.