According to the theory of evolution by natural selection, which of the following best explains how a population adapts to its environment over time?

• A. All individuals in a population change their traits simultaneously in response to environmental changes.
• B. Individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those traits to the next generation.
• C. Mutations always result in beneficial adaptations for the population.
• D. Traits acquired during an organism's lifetime are inherited by its offspring.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the theory of evolution by natural selection: This theory explains how populations adapt to their environment over time through differential survival and reproduction of individuals with advantageous traits.
2. Clarify the concept of advantageous traits: These are traits that increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction in a specific environment. Such traits are often heritable and passed on to offspring.
3. Examine the role of genetic variation: Genetic variation within a population provides the raw material for natural selection. Mutations, genetic recombination, and other processes contribute to this variation.
4. Analyze the process of selection: Individuals with traits that confer a survival or reproductive advantage are more likely to pass those traits to the next generation. Over time, these traits become more common in the population.
5. Debunk misconceptions: Traits acquired during an organism's lifetime (e.g., learned behaviors or physical changes due to environment) are not inherited genetically. Additionally, not all mutations are beneficial; some may be neutral or harmful.